Court, Not State, Ordered Elephant Mahadevi’s Move to Gujarat, Says Fadnavis

Pune, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has responded to public outrage surrounding the relocation of elephant Mahadevi (also known as Madhuri) from Kolhapur to the Vantara rescue and rehabilitation centre in Gujarat. He clarified that the decision was made by the Bombay High Court, not by the state government.

“The directive to transfer Madhuri the elephant was issued by the Bombay High Court, and the Supreme Court upheld the order. The state merely submitted a report through the forest department,” said Fadnavis, addressing the criticism and emotional reactions from Kolhapur residents.

Fadnavis acknowledged the strong local sentiments and confirmed that meetings have been scheduled with MLAs and MPs from the region to explore legal options. “We respect the public’s feelings. We will discuss every concern raised and examine possibilities for bringing Madhuri back,” he said.

The elephant’s relocation followed serious concerns raised by animal rights organisations. The Bombay High Court noted in its July 16 order that Mahadevi had been kept in chains and isolated, suffering both physically and psychologically. On July 28, the Supreme Court upheld the transfer, ordering her move to Vantara within two weeks.

PETA India, which has long advocated for Mahadevi’s rehabilitation, reported signs of mental distress, joint pain, and overgrown nails due to neglect. At Vantara, she will now receive proper medical attention, social interaction, and an enriched habitat after years of solitary confinement.

While emotional reactions continue in Kolhapur, officials emphasize that the transfer was done under judicial supervision to protect the elephant’s health and welfare.