Photo Courtesy: nenews
Guwahati: The Centre for Research on Animal Rights has formally requested that Assam wildlife authorities investigate the unauthorized movement and planned transfers of captive elephants. The organization alleges these activities violate the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 and the 2024 Captive Elephant Transfer or Transport Rules.
In a letter to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, founder Alok Hisarwala Gupta requested verification regarding the status of elephants named Mohan, Ram Prasad, and Ranjita. The group cites reports that Mohan was allegedly moved from Lakhimpur to Rajasthan without required clearances from destination state officials. Similar concerns persist regarding the planned sale of Ram Prasad to a buyer in southern India and the previously challenged relocation of Ranjita to a Delhi temple facility.
The advocacy group warned that because Asian elephants are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, all movements must face rigorous legal oversight. They are pushing for a full audit of ownership records, veterinary health certificates, and genetic profiles to ensure compliance. The organization stated, "no further movement of captive elephants be allowed unless all legal requirements under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and the 2024 Rules are fulfilled and called for an inquiry and corrective action if any transfer had already taken place without proper compliance."
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