NEW DELHI: Mahadevi, an elephant once rescued from poor conditions at a religious institution in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, might soon be sent back, despite all the care and recovery she received at the Vantara Wildlife Centre in Gujarat.
A few months ago, Mahadevi was shifted to Vantara after People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) raised concerns about her health and treatment at the SwastiShri Jensen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Sanstha in Nandani village.
The Bombay High Court, and later the Supreme Court, approved her relocation to Vantara, giving her a chance at a better life.
At Vantara, Mahadevi finally received the attention she needed.
For the first time in years, she was free from chains.
She had open space to walk, proper food made for elephants, and a team of vets and caretakers looking after her daily.
A broken bone that was left untreated earlier was now getting proper medical help.
Her toenail, which had been causing her pain, was fixed.
Most importantly, she received emotional care to help her heal from years of stress and trauma.
However, her recovery is now in danger. In Kolhapur, local groups have started demanding her return.
There have been emotional appeals and pressure on officials.
Because of this, sources say that steps are already being taken to send Mahadevi back to the mutt she was rescued from.
This sudden decision has alarmed animal rights supporters.
They fear that if Mahadevi goes back, she could again be tied up, used in religious events, or even forced to beg.
They believe that sending her back will undo all the progress she has made, both physically and emotionally.
Animal welfare groups stress that Mahadevi’s well-being should be the top priority.
After everything she has gone through, they argue that she deserves a life of freedom, safety, and dignity. - The Statesman/ANN
