Why is Thailand Keeping Muthu Raja and Not Returning Him to Sri Lanka?
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Synopsis
In a shocking decision, Thailand has chosen to keep Muthu Raja, an elephant subjected to severe abuse in Sri Lanka, permanently in the country. This decision comes after extensive treatment and international scrutiny. Read on to discover the implications of this choice and the ongoing debate surrounding animal rights.
Key Takeaways
- Muthu Raja is an elephant that suffered severe abuse in Sri Lanka.
- He was airlifted back to Thailand for treatment in 2023.
- Thailand has decided to keep him permanently for rehabilitation.
- Government spending on his care exceeds Rs. 200 million.
- Animal rights activists are advocating for justice concerning his past treatment.
Colombo, April 28 (NationPress) Thailand has made the decision to permanently retain an elephant named Muthu Raja, who is currently receiving treatment in the country after suffering severe abuse in Sri Lanka.
The elephant was originally sent to Sri Lanka in 2001 as a gift from the Thai royal family when he was approximately 10 years old.
Muthu Raja was one of three elephants presented to the Sri Lankan government for training as carriers of religious relics.
However, he endured considerable mistreatment while confined at Kande Viharaya in Aluthgama, where he was held for around 12 years, according to local media reports.
Following this, Muthu Raja was moved to the Dehiwala Zoo in Colombo, where he underwent treatment for roughly four months.
Due to a diplomatic disagreement regarding the alleged mistreatment of the elephant, he was airlifted back to Thailand in 2023. At that time, Thai authorities assured that he would be returned to Sri Lanka after receiving care for his multiple injuries.
However, the Sri Lankan newspaper Daily Mirror reported on Monday that Thailand has opted to keep the elephant in its homeland permanently.
Last year, a medical team from the National Zoo in Dehiwala traveled to Thailand at the Thai government’s invitation to evaluate the elephant's health.
A group of officials from Thailand informed the Sri Lankan team that Muthu Raja was recovering well. Subsequently, the Thai government announced its decision to not return the elephant.
The Thai government is reportedly investing over Rs. 200 million in the care and rehabilitation of the elephant, as per the newspaper.
Previously, activist groups and Thai citizens also urged against the return of the tusker to Sri Lanka, following serious allegations of abuse while in Aluthgama.
The Rally for Animal Rights and Environment called for legal action against those responsible, claiming that the elephant was mistreated, tortured, and neglected.
Point of View
Particularly in the context of international relations. While the elephant's past in Sri Lanka raises serious ethical questions, the move underscores a commitment to rehabilitation over return, reflecting the sentiment of a nation that prioritizes the welfare of its wildlife.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Muthu Raja sent to Thailand?
Muthu Raja was sent to Thailand for treatment after suffering severe abuse in Sri Lanka.
What was the Thai government's assurance regarding Muthu Raja?
The Thai government initially assured that Muthu Raja would be returned to Sri Lanka after receiving treatment.
How much is the Thai government spending on Muthu Raja's care?
The Thai government is reportedly spending over Rs. 200 million on Muthu Raja's care and rehabilitation.
What led to the decision not to return Muthu Raja?
The decision was influenced by the elephant's recovery and concerns raised by activists about his treatment in Sri Lanka.
What actions have been taken by animal rights groups?
Animal rights groups have called for prosecution against those responsible for Muthu Raja's abuse.
