A protest supporting Agriculture Minister K.D. Lal Kantha’s controversial suggestion to cull wild animals damaging crops was held in Kegalle town. Organized by the Siyambalapitiya Youth Organization, the demonstrators criticized environmentalists opposing the minister’s proposal and called for immediate action to protect farmers’ livelihoods.
Protesters invited environmental groups to visit their fields and witness firsthand the destruction caused by animals such as wild boars, monkeys, and porcupines, which they claim have wreaked havoc on their crops. They argued that without effective measures, farmers are left defenseless against these threats, which result in significant financial losses.
Minister Lal Kantha recently stirred debate by suggesting that crop-damaging wildlife should be culled, sparking outrage among environmental organizations. In response, environmentalists staged protests in Colombo, asserting that culling wildlife is a short-sighted solution that risks destabilizing ecosystems and exacerbating environmental issues.
Farmers, however, contend that the situation is critical, citing increased encounters with wild animals due to habitat encroachment and poor wildlife management. They argue that other measures, such as fences or repellents, have been ineffective in addressing the scale of the problem.
This growing conflict highlights the broader challenge of balancing environmental conservation with the economic survival of farming communities. The debate has also reignited calls for comprehensive wildlife management strategies that can address both agricultural and ecological concerns.
