COLOMBO, Apr 7: Sri Lankan Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has shared the story behind the photo of a one-eyed female leopard from Wilpattu National Park, which he presented to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Sri Lanka on April 5.
Premadasa said in a post on X that the leopard, which had lost sight in one eye due to possible glaucoma, cataract or trauma, represented resilience and the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s wilderness.
“This extraordinary leopard once roamed the wilds of Wilpattu with remarkable strength and grace,” Premadasa said, calling her a symbol of survival amid adversity.
Sajith Premadasa, Leader of the Opposition of Sri Lanka and Leader of Samagi Jana Balawegaya, said the leopard has not been sighted in recent years and her fate is unknown. “Her absence is a poignant reminder of the fragile balance of our ecosystems – and the urgent need for proactive conservation,” he posted.
His post read: “It was an honour to present this powerful image of a one-eyed female leopard from Wilpattu National Park to His Excellency @narendramodi, Prime Minister of India, on 5th April 2025, along with my warmest wishes.
“This extraordinary leopard, who had lost sight in one eye – possibly due to glaucoma, cataract, or trauma – once roamed the wilds of Wilpattu with remarkable strength and grace. She became a striking symbol of resilience and the untamed beauty of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage.
“Her piercing blue eye told a quiet but powerful story of survival – of courage in the face of adversity and the will to endure the unforgiving challenges of the wild.
“Regrettably, she has not been sighted in recent years, and her fate remains uncertain. While we continue to hold on to hope, her absence serves as a poignant reminder of the fragile balance of our ecosystems – and the urgent need for proactive conservation.”
On his meeting with PM Modi, he posted:
“Honoured to have met with Prime Minister @narendramodi during a moment that calls for more than economic cooperation, it calls for a deeper partnership between our nations.
“Sri Lanka and India have the chance to shape a future of Shared Ascent, where growth is not just measured in trade, but in the wellbeing of our people. Grateful for India’s unwavering support during Sri Lanka’s most difficult times.”
PM Modi was on a three-day state visit to Sri Lanka on Apr 4-6, during which he held talks with President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka and both sides inked several agreements, including on defence cooperation and a trilateral agreement with the UAE for development of Trincomalee as an energy hub. The two leaders also inaugurated several India-assisted developmental projects in Sri Lanka.
(UNI)
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