Controversy over new amendments being introduced to the Animal Welfare Act in Sri Lanka

A highly controversial situation has arisen in Sri Lanka regarding the new Animal Welfare Bill published in the Gazette. One party argues that this long-awaited bill, which replaces the 1907 Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance, should be passed immediately. Conversely, another faction emphasizes that urgent amendments are necessary, pointing to problematic clauses that might undermine the protection of animals. The proposed legislation significantly increases fines and prison terms for cruelty and centralizes administrative functions under the Director General of Animal Production and Health.

The bill defines animal cruelty in detail, prohibits illegal killing, fighting, and cruel entertainment, and sets standards for transportation and breeding. Furthermore, it prohibits the confinement of animals in small cages or cruelly chaining them to restrict their movement. While rumors suggested the bill would ban the use of animals in religious processions or cultural festivals, Section 19(f) clarifies that animals may be used for agricultural, religious, or cultural purposes, provided no harm is caused to them.

Attorney Lalani Perera, an animal rights activist, noted that the bill was first gazetted on February 7, 2022, and re-gazetted with significant changes on July 20, 2026. She highlighted that, unlike the 1907 Ordinance—which was limited to domestic or captured animals—the new bill broadens the definition to cover almost all non-human living beings, including farm, wild, and stray animals. It also proposes allowing individuals to file cases before a magistrate without needing a police report.

Dr. Krishanthi Rondon Fuentes of the Animal Wellness Trust Sri Lanka urges stakeholders to set aside political differences and pass the bill, viewing it as the greatest step forward in over a century. However, activists like Champa Fernando of KACPAW and representatives from Justice for Animals warn that the exemptions in Section 19 create legal loopholes that could nullify the bill’s primary objective of preventing cruelty. They maintain that these provisions must be strengthened before the legislation reaches the floor.

Meanwhile, a delegation led by Pradeep Nilanga Dela, representing owners of tamed elephants, met with Agriculture Minister K.D. Lalakantha to argue that elephant welfare is already covered by the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance, making inclusion here redundant. The Minister agreed to remove those specific clauses. He further stated that comprehensive discussions will be held with all interested parties, including animal rights groups, before the bill is officially presented to Parliament for approval.