Kerala Temple Tragedy: Captive Elephant Management Under Scrutiny

Violations of captive elephant management rules led to chaos during a temple festival in Kerala, causing three deaths and numerous injuries. The elephants, unchained and agitated by fireworks, initiated a stampede. Authorities, including the Kerala High Court, are investigating and promising strict actions against those responsible.

The Kerala Forest Minister, A K Saseendran, revealed a breach in the management of captive elephants that resulted in a deadly stampede. The incident, which occurred during a temple festival, led to the tragic death of three individuals, including two women, when two elephants went on a rampage.

The chaos erupted as the elephants were startled by firecrackers, causing them to clash and damage a nearby building, leading to the fatalities. The turmoil intensified when the elephants fled, inciting panic amongst festival-goers and injuring over 20 people.

Minister Saseendran emphasized the neglect in adhering to Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules — notably, the failure to restrain the elephants and control fireworks. The Forest Department vowed strict action against the elephants' owners and temple authorities. The Kerala High Court has also demanded a comprehensive report from the state government.

(With inputs from agencies.)