The Kerala High Court has responded to a public interest litigation concerning the alleged mistreatment of captive elephants at the upcoming Thrissur Pooram event on April 26. Justices A.A. Ziyad Rahman and K.V. Jayakumar issued notices to the state government and key officials, including forest conservators and district collectors.
A plea was accepted by the government pleader on behalf of the state, with additional notices sent to the organizers of the festival. While no interim orders were given due to a related matter pending in the Supreme Court, concerns were raised about the treatment of elephants during temple festivals in Kerala, particularly at Thrissur Pooram.
The petitioner highlighted violations of animal welfare norms, citing instances of elephants being exposed to loud fireworks, standing in crowded areas without safety distances, and facing inadequate rest and nourishment. The petition emphasizes the need for strict enforcement of regulations to ensure the well-being of captive elephants.
