GUWAHATI: The proposed transfer of a female elephant from Assam to the Maa Baglamukhi temple in South Delhi has sparked widespread controversy. The temple, located in Greater Kailash, plans to house the elephant Ranjita as part of its ongoing expansion efforts.
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However, animal rights activists argue that Delhi’s urban environment is unsustainable for her. The Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisation (FIAPO) has voiced strong opposition to the transfer, stating that the surrounding infrastructure is unsuitable for an elephant, and the extreme climate will add to the situation’s woes.
“Delhi is simply not equipped to provide for the needs of a captive elephant,” said FIAPO’s CEO, Bharati Ramachandran. Her organisation also stressed that the 1.5-acre plot provided by the temple will be inadequate for Ranjita’s well-being, and such limited space could deteriorate her physical and mental health.
In their petition, FIAPO has challenged the legality of this transfer, citing the 2024 Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules. These rules clarify that an elephant can be moved only under special circumstances, such as when the current owner is unable to care for the elephant, or if better care is available at the new location.
Ranjita’s relocation has been in the works since April 2024, when the Maa Baglamukhi Temple requested her transfer from the Assam Forest Department. The High-Powered Committee (HPC), formed by the Supreme Court to oversee the welfare of captive elephants in India, is currently overseeing the matter.
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court, in response to FIAPO’s concerns, has directed the organisation to submit recommendations on regulating the transfer of captive elephants, particularly to religious institutions.
Assam Chief Wildlife Warden Sandeep Kumar, however, is still reviewing the transfer.
