Madras High Court Demands Annual Rehabilitation Camps for Temple Elephants

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has asked the government to respond to a public petition seeking annual rehabilitation camps for captive elephants in temples and monasteries. The request, driven by concerns over post-pandemic neglect, emphasizes the need for rejuvenation camps providing rest and medical care.

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has issued a notice to the government, calling for a response to a public interest petition that seeks a mandate for annual rehabilitation camps for captive elephants in temples, mutts, and other places of worship.

Thiruchendur resident Ramkumar Adithyan, who filed the petition, pointed out that the last such camp was held in February 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted that no rehabilitation camps have been conducted since, despite easing pandemic restrictions.

The petition underscores the importance of these camps, which offer elephants much-needed rest, nutritious food, and veterinary care, ensuring their well-being. As the case came up for hearing, Justices Subramanian and Victoria Gowri were urged to compel the Tamil Nadu government to reinstate these annual camps.

(With inputs from agencies.)