It has been reported that Muthuraja, who was taken to Thailand for medical treatment, is unlikely to be brought back to Sri Lanka following a series of treatments, according to Thai media. Kanchana Silpa-Archa, advisor to Thailand’s Ministry of Environment and head of the delegation overseeing the repatriation, stated that the elephant will require ongoing medical supervision by Thai doctors for the remainder of its life.
Thai PBS news service reported that Thailand’s Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Warauth Silpa-Archa, announced that the elephant is currently under the care of the Thai King. The minister clarified that Sak Surin, the renowned elephant, is now under the patronage of the Thai King, making it unlikely for the elephant to return to Sri Lanka. Thai media highlighted how over ten thousand people had tuned in to a live broadcast by the Thai Elephant Conservatory about Kas Surin on Facebook.
Thai news media further noted that Sak Surin, who arrived in Thailand on Sunday, has quickly adapted to the new environment despite spending 22 years in Sri Lanka. Minister Warauth Silpa-Archa commented that the request from senior monks in Sri Lanka for the elephant to return to Bangkok after full recovery is not up for discussion, as Sak Surin is already under the patronage of the Thai King.
A comprehensive examination plan has been organized by specialized veterinarians for Muthuraja, who is currently undergoing a 30-day quarantine period at the Elephant Conservation Center in Lampang Province. The minister stated that the series of treatments will commence after the quarantine period. Thai media quoted the minister affirming that treatment will continue until the elephant has fully recovered from all ailments, which is expected to take a considerable amount of time.
As per current assessments, Muthuraja has developed cataracts in his right eye. Preliminary tests have revealed difficulties in bending his front left leg, an infected deep wound in the hip area, and issues with his nails and all four feet.
Muthuraja was airlifted to Thailand following reports of ill-treatment and injuries. The elephant, who endured significant suffering, was entrusted to Thai representatives by the monks of Kandeh Vihara under strict conditions that included treatment and eventual return to Sri Lanka.
