Mistreatment Concerns Prompt Elephant Talks with Lanka

Photo via Facebook/ สุชาติ ชมกลิ่น

The Thai government is preparing for talks with Sri Lanka on October 28 to repatriate two elephants amid concerns of mistreatment. Deputy Prime Minister and MONRE Minister, Suchart Chomklin, announced the urgent plan following reports of inadequate living conditions for Plai Pratu Pha and Plai Srinarong, prompting action from authorities.

Concerns about the elephants' welfare first emerged last year, highlighted by the Reclaim Thai Elephant group. The group, led by Yuwanuch Kiattiwong, submitted a formal request to the government to address the elephants' conditions, including reported overwork and constant chaining. These elephants were originally gifted by Thailand but have reportedly suffered due to a lack of proper care.

Suchart Chomklin conveyed through Facebook that the Thai government, including PM Anutin Charnvirakul, is actively monitoring the situation. Diplomatic channels have been opened to facilitate the elephants’ return, though logistical complexities may delay the process. Thai officials, alongside veterinarians, plan to visit Sri Lanka to evaluate the elephants' current state and provide guidance on their care.

Attaphon Charoenchansa, Director of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, will join Suchart in Sri Lanka. The focus will be on negotiating the elephants' return, similar to the successful repatriation of Plai Sak Surin in 2023. The history of these elephants in Sri Lanka includes Plai Pratu Pha's arrival in 1979 and Plai Srinarong's in 2001. While efforts to return Plai Sak Surin succeeded, Plai Srinarong remains at an elephant shelter in Kataragama.

Preparation for the upcoming talks involves Thai experts assessing the elephants' health and advising local caretakers on proper treatment. The Thai delegation aims to foster conditions for a successful negotiation, with hopes of improving the elephants' welfare back in Thailand.

Key Takeaways

• Thailand seeks to repatriate two elephants from Sri Lanka after welfare concerns.
• Talks are scheduled for October 28, guided by Suchart Chomklin.
• The situation follows the successful return of another elephant in 2023.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-10-24