Ban the Chaining of Elephants in Sri Lankan Peraheras

Sri Lanka’s cultural processions (Peraheras) are celebrated worldwide for their rich heritage and grand traditions. However, the reliance on captive elephants in these events has raised severe animal welfare concerns. Elephants participating in these processions are frequently bound with heavy iron chains, subjected to tight ankle shackles, forced to walk miles on blistering asphalt, and exposed to loud noises, fire, and intense stress.

While preserving cultural heritage is vital, true tradition should reflect compassion, not cruelty. Prolonged chaining causes severe physical injuries, joint damage, foot rot, and extreme psychological distress to these highly intelligent, social animals. Today, public awareness and international standards demand that our cultural celebrations evolve to reflect humane treatment and kindness toward wildlife.

An Immediate Ban on Heavy Chaining: Prohibit the use of heavy iron chains, spike collars, and restrictive ankle shackles on captive elephants during Peraheras and public processions.

Strict Animal Welfare Enforcement: Mandate and strictly enforce mandatory welfare regulations for cultural events, including maximum walking distances, mandatory rest periods, shade, adequate hydration, and certified veterinary oversight on-site.

Transition to Humane Alternatives: Encourage event organizers and religious institutions to adopt modern, cruelty-free management techniques or gradually transition toward non-animal representations in cultural displays.

Legislative Accountability: Enforce strict legal penalties under Sri Lankan animal welfare laws against handlers, owners, and event organizers who inflict unnecessary pain, neglect, or harm on captive elephants.