Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis Plans Elephant Madhuri's Return; Vantara Supports Rehabilitation Efforts In Kolhapur

Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis revealed plans for a conversation with the Vantara team about the return of the elephant Madhuri to the Nandani Math. The Vantara team affirmed adherence to the Supreme Court's directives and stressed they do not desire custody of Madhuri.

The Vantara team conveyed their intention to create a rehabilitation center in Kolhapur for the elephant, honoring the feelings of the community. Fadnavis indicated that the state administration would assist in returning Madhuri from Vantara’s facility in Gujarat, emphasizing intentions to submit a review petition in the Supreme Court by both the state and Nandani Math.

Madhuri, a 36-year-old elephant, spent more than thirty years at the Nandani Math before moving to Vantara's facility after a court decision based on health issues raised by an NGO and Committee evaluations. The Supreme Court upheld the Bombay High Court's ruling, requiring Madhuri's rehabilitation at Vantara's facility, which sparked considerable public protests in Kolhapur calling for her return.

The Chief Minister noted the robust public support for Madhuri's comeback and emphasized that appropriate legal actions will be implemented. He urged Nandani Math to involve the state government in their petition and confirmed that the forest department would take an impartial position in court. Fadnavis recognized the strong emotional bonds the local community has with Madhuri, vowing to investigate all legal options for her return and to create a dedicated team for her well-being.

Furthermore, the state might ask an impartial committee from the Supreme Court to assess whether the relocation adheres to current regulations. Fadnavis additionally pointed out the need to drop criminal cases tied to protests over Madhuri's relocation and encouraged the forest department to collect data on relocated elephants in Maharashtra. The gathering featured delegates from different political parties in the Kolhapur area.