PETA to hold rally for Sunder cause tomorrow

“We will take appropriate action based on CZA recommendation,” PCCF (Wildlife) S W H Naqvi told The Indian Express.

PETA has alleged the Forest Department is sitting on its proposal to shift the elephant,Sunder,in possession of Jyotiba Devasthan Trust to a rehabilitation centre in Bangalore.

“Elephants are intelligent,social and expressive animals who suffer every minute in solitary confinement,” its India Director (Veterinary Affairs) Manilal Valliyate said in a press note. “It’s unconscionable that PCCF has the power to end Sunder’s agony but apparently lacks the will.

“Sunder is denied everything that is natural and important to him and lives in fear. He has won the hearts of people around the world,including Paul McCartney and Pamela Anderson who have both written letters seeking his transfer to the sanctuary,” he said.

Naqvi said,“It’s true the elephant was ill-treated by a mahavat initially. But the mahavat has been changed and the elephant is now being treated well. But we will do whatever is necessary as per CZA instructions.”

PETA also alleged Forest Minister Patangrao Kadam had issued orders to release the elephant.

Naqvi said,“There are two groups in Kolhapur now. The other group made a representation to the government opposing takeover of the elephant. The government issued an order to act appropriately after due inquiry. So,we are conducting hearings for the past about a month.”

Asked if the elephant was chained,Chief Conservator of Forest (Kolhapur) P N Munde said,“Elephants are generally held by chains. It’s not a question of just one elephant. There are many across the state.”