Gujarat/Kolhapur, August 2025 – The Radhe Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust (RKTEWT), operating under the Vantara initiative, has issued a statement to clarify its role in the recent relocation of the elephant Mahadevi from the SwastiShri Jensen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Sanstha in Nandani village, Kolhapur district, to its wildlife care facility in Gujarat.
The trust reiterated that the transfer was not undertaken by RKTEWT or Vantara, but was performed strictly in accordance with legal guidelines. The move to transfer Mahadevi came after a High-Powered Committee's suggestions and was supported by the Bombay High Court on 16th July 2025. The Supreme Court of India eventually ratified the order on 28th July 2025, instructing that the transfer be done within a fortnight. The issue stands listed for compliance reporting on 11th August 2025.
RKTEWT reiterated following public discourse and public outcry that Vantara was purely a court-appointed receiving facility, and all measures were taken in coordination with legal and statutory authorities.
While respecting the cultural and emotional importance of Mahadevi to the people of Kolhapur, the trust said its role was directed by law and by concern for animal welfare. "The judicial orders that decide this case specifically set out the grounds for the transfer," the statement said.
A prior communication from Vantara had also underscored that Mahadevi’s relocation was undertaken “with love, responsibility, and full adherence to legal and welfare standards.” The organisation confirmed it remains in “direct and respectful dialogue with the Swamiji” to explore solutions that honour both Mahadevi’s wellbeing and the sentiments of the local community.
Since arriving at Vantara, Mahadevi has been given specialized treatment by a committed team of veterinarians, behaviourists, and caregivers. She was freed from shackles, rehabilitated from an unaddressed old fracture and a sore broken toenail, and has been given medical care, balanced diet, room to move about, and emotional support towards holistic recuperation.
As talks go on, the trust reiterated that whatever future action with regard to Mahadevi is taken, it should be based on compassion, legality, and the long-term concern for her health and well-being.
