Recently, elephant abuse in Sri Lanka made worldwide news when a 70-year-old elephant collapsed after being forced to parade at a high-profile Buddhist pageant. Not only is this event popular among locals, but it draws many foreign tourists as well.

Elephants are terrified in Sri Lanka. In fact, one of the most protected endangered species in Sri Lanka are elephants. There are still reports of elephant cruelty, however, that has been tamed. In reality, there are evidently still wealthy Sri Lankans who keep elephants as pets. However, these elephants aren’t treated properly. There are several allegations of abuse and cruelty against these unfortunate Elephants.

The government of Sri Lanka has ordered an inquiry into how Tiriki, the 70-year-old elephant was forced to take part in this lengthy procession despite her poor health. “I have been informed that the elephant collapsed yesterday,” Minister Saidu said in a statement.

The minister said, “Considering what has transpired, I have ordered officials to initiate an inquiry and ascertain how and why an elephant in such poor health was used in the (pageant) and to take necessary action against those responsible.”

Minister John Amaratunga said that, in addition to the investigation, he ordered the wildlife authorities to make sure this incident will not happen again. He continued on to say that the cruel treatment of over 200 elephants who are currently in captivity and are routinely paraded at Buddhist temple festivals should be stopped.

According to reports, animal lovers complained to the authorities about allowing an old cow to participate in the annual Esala pageant while wearing costly clothing and watched by thousands of people in Kandy’s main city. The demonstrators’ outrage was shared via social media. As a result, the celebration’s organizers withdrew Tiriki from the grand finale.

The individuals responsible for organizing the Esala Festival in Kandy explained that Tiriki was not a temple elephant and thus would not be participating in the final event along with the other elephants.

Jason Baker, the Senior Vice President of the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals said, “Many more elephants in Sri Lanka are suffering similar or worse treatment in service to the exploitative and abusive tourism industry.”

In response to accusations that the elephants were being mistreated, Jayantha Jayewardene, a Sri Lankan elephant expert, said that this sort of treatment was “inhumane.” He stated that Tiriki was visibly malnourished. In reality, she may be nearing death as a result of her condition. He went on to say that these elephants are shown off by their owners in order to benefit themselves rather than the animal. “This should never have been allowed,” Jayewardene stated.

Lek Chailert, the founder of the Save Elephant Foundation, also took to social media to voice his concern. He stated that because she was fully covered in a costume, spectators were unable to see how weak and emaciated she actually was.

PETA offered to transport the severely ill Tiriki to a sanctuary where she could be cared for and treated by veterinarians.