Maharashtra will file review petition to bring back elephant Madhuri from Vantara: Fadnavis

The controversy arose in July when the Bombay High Court ordered the rehabilitation of the ailing elephant, which was housed in the Nandani Math in Shirol taluka, based on a petition by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). The Supreme Court had also upheld the decision of the Bombay High Court subsequently.

“Considering the traditions of Nandani Math and the sentiments of the local people, efforts will be made to bring back Madhuri through a legal process. Madhuri has been in Nandani Math for the last 34 years, and there is a public sentiment that Madhuri should return to Nandani Math. Keeping this public sentiment in mind, the state government will file a review petition,” said Fadnavis.

“The Math should also include the state government in its petition. Also, a separate detailed position will be presented in the Supreme Court on behalf of the Forest Department,” he added.

Fadnavis said once Madhuri is brought back, the government will set up a dedicated team, including a veterinarian, to care for her and provide any necessary support.

“If necessary, arrangements like a rescue centre will be made, and facilities will be provided accordingly. A request will also be made through the state government in this petition to appoint an independent committee by the Supreme Court to investigate the matters,” the chief minister said.

Fadnavis said criminal charges against protesters would be withdrawn.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar said the Forest Department should collect information about all the elephants taken out of Maharashtra.

Congress MLC Satej Patil said his party stands with the local people on the issue, and believes that the female elephant, who is an integral part of the math, should be returned.

Former Lok Sabha lawmaker Raju Shetti said a conspiracy was hatched to snatch the female elephant from the math. “Several mutts in Maharashtra and Karnataka are getting notices to take away the elephants. This has to be stopped and probed,” said Shetti.

On July 30, when the team from Vantara came to transport Madhuri, there was an outpour of grief by residents, who refused to allow the vehicle to move.