GUWAHATI: The Gauhati High Court has directed a Supreme Court-appointed High-Powered Committee to consider the rehabilitation of nine Assamese elephants, including Joymala.
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The court has sought a report from the committee, headed by retired Justice Deepak Verma, on issues concerning the ownership, transfer and rehabilitation of the elephants. PETA India has also been given an opportunity to present its views before the committee.
The committee has been asked to examine issues related to the elephants’ ownership, transfer and welfare. Animal rights organisation PETA India has also been given an opportunity to present its views before the committee.
The Assam government had approached the Gauhati High Court in 2022 seeking Joymala’s release following reports and video evidence alleging cruelty and raising concerns over her treatment.
The court has also directed the Tamil Nadu government to conduct monthly inspections of the facilities where the nine elephants are being housed.
The committee will also look into cases where elephants are found to be lacking proper care, nutrition, medical attention or adequate facilities, with such elephants to be considered for seizure and rehabilitation.
The temporary transfer period for the nine elephants has expired, bringing their future rehabilitation before the expert committee.
The development comes amid continuing concerns over the welfare and living conditions of elephants transferred from Assam to other states.
The court’s intervention has renewed calls for the elephants to receive proper care and, where appropriate, rehabilitation in environments closer to their natural habitat.