Elephant Madhuri: Vantara to join Maharashtra Government’s Supreme Court petition for Madhuri’s return
In a major development concerning the emotional issue of elephant Madhuri, who was shifted from Kolhapur to Gujarat’s Vantara Rescue Centre as per a court order, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced that Vantara has agreed to set up a new rescue centre in Nandani village, Kolhapur, especially for Madhuri.
Not just that, Vantara will also support the Maharashtra government’s petition in the Supreme Court seeking Madhuri’s return to her original home.
Why Was Madhuri Moved?
Madhuri, a beloved elephant, had been living in Nandani Mutt (a religious place) in Kolhapur for over 30 years. But recently, the Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court ordered her relocation to Vantara for better rehabilitation and care. This created anger among locals, who came out on the streets demanding her return.
New Centre in Nandani: What Will It Include?
After meeting the Vantara team, CM Fadnavis said:
“Vantara clearly stated that they don’t want to ‘own’ the elephant. They only took her in because of the court’s order. Now, they are ready to support the petition for Madhuri’s return and will also set up a new rescue centre in Kolhapur’s Nandani village.”
In an official statement, Vantara confirmed that the proposed facility will follow animal welfare guidelines, will be built in consultation with experts, and with full agreement of the mutt (temple authorities).
Also read: India’s Biggest Elephant Care Training Begins at Vantara Jamnagar with ‘Vantara Gajsevak Sammelan’
Special Features of the New Rescue Centre:
Vantara shared that the new centre will be equipped with:
- Hydrotherapy pond – for relief from joint and muscle pain
- Large water body – for swimming and natural movement
- Laser therapy and treatment room – for physical healing
- Night shelter – covered and safe sleeping area
- Open, chain-free walking space – for free movement
- Sand pit – for play and natural activity
- On-site veterinary clinic – for regular health checkups
What the Mutt Is Saying
A representative of Nandani Mutt, Bhagate Appa, said:
“We welcome the move. But Vantara should directly communicate with us, and the government must announce the date of Madhuri’s return.”
Who Will Select the Land?
CM Fadnavis informed that the State Forest Department will decide the land location for the centre, in discussion with the mutt.
Court Orders and Clarification by Vantara
Vantara clarified in its statement that:
“We had no role in shifting Madhuri. The court ordered the relocation, and we just followed it. Our only job was to provide her care, treatment, and shelter. We understand the religious and emotional bond between Madhuri and the people of Kolhapur.”
Shiv Sena Raises the Issue with the Centre
A delegation from Shiv Sena, led by Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, met Union Home Minister Amit Shah about this matter. Mr. Shinde said:
“We have shared people’s concerns with the Central Government. A meeting has been held. We must follow the Supreme Court order, but at the same time, we respect public emotions. The state government is actively working on it.”
Conclusion
The decision to set up a rescue centre in Kolhapur and support Madhuri’s return has brought hope to thousands of locals who see Madhuri as part of their culture and faith. Now, all eyes are on the Supreme Court, the State Government, and Vantara, waiting to see when and how Madhuri comes home.
