Mumbai: Amid rising protests and emotional appeals from Kolhapur residents over the transfer of elephant Mahadevi, also known as Madhuri, to Gujarat’s Vantara rescue and rehabilitation centre, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has clarified that the state government had no role in the decision. The relocation, he said, was carried out as per court orders, not by any administrative action of the state.
“This was not a state government decision,” Fadnavis asserted. “The Bombay High Court ordered the elephant’s relocation due to concerns about her condition. When the order was challenged in the Supreme Court, it was upheld there as well. The only role of the state government was to provide a report through the forest department.”
Legal Mandate, Not Political Move
The Bombay High Court, in its July 16 order, highlighted the elephant’s deteriorating condition — including prolonged confinement in chains and solitary isolation in Kolhapur. It flagged serious concerns over Mahadevi’s physical and mental health, prompting a legal directive to transfer her to Vantara, a state-of-the-art rescue centre in Gujarat. The Supreme Court reaffirmed this decision on July 28, ordering that the transfer be completed within two weeks.
Fadnavis, while addressing the issue, acknowledged that there is strong public sentiment surrounding the elephant. “Yes, there is resentment in society. Devotees are emotionally attached to Madhuri. We are in discussions with local MLAs and MPs, and a meeting has been scheduled to explore legal avenues that might help in addressing the concerns of the people,” he said.
Years of Suffering Brought to Light
The relocation followed sustained campaigning by animal rights groups, including PETA India, which welcomed the move and shared details of Mahadevi’s suffering in Kolhapur. According to the organisation, the elephant had been chained for years, denied contact with other elephants, and lived in an environment devoid of enrichment or stimulation.
PETA reported signs of psychological trauma, including repetitive swaying and head bobbing—behaviours typical of elephants experiencing extreme stress. Veterinary evaluations also revealed severe foot ailments, joint pain, and overgrown toenails due to lack of movement and poor care.
New Hope at Vantara
At Vantara, Mahadevi is expected to undergo specialised veterinary treatment, with opportunities for physical rehabilitation and, crucially, socialisation with other elephants in a protected, naturalistic setting — a life far removed from the solitary chains of Kolhapur.
Animal rights groups say the move offers her a second chance at life, one with dignity, care, and companionship.
Balancing Emotion and Law
While emotional protests continue in Kolhapur, with many residents and religious devotees calling for Mahadevi’s return, the government has clarified that the move is legally binding. Fadnavis reiterated that all stakeholder concerns will be heard, but any future action must comply with the rulings of the courts.
“This matter is guided entirely by judicial orders,” he said. “We respect the sentiments of the people and will place all points for discussion, but the elephant’s welfare is paramount, and the law must be followed.”
