Controversy Arises as South Delhi Temple Prepares to Receive Elephant from Assam

A South Delhi temple, located in Greater Kailash, is preparing to house an elephant from Assam, stirring concerns among animal rights groups. The Maa Baglamukhi Temple, associated with high-profile religious ceremonies, has earmarked a 1.5-acre plot in the Sainik Farm neighborhood for the animal. However, this move comes six years after Delhi's last captive elephants were rescued following a court order aimed at improving animal welfare.

The elephant, named Ranjita, currently resides in Jorhat, Assam. While the Assam government is still evaluating the proposal, Delhi’s forest department has not raised any objections to the transfer, even though the neighborhood where the elephant will be kept suffers from chronic water shortages. Despite several inspections, animal rights activists argue that relocating an elephant to a residential area in a bustling city like Delhi is a step backward.

Many fear that this decision could lead to further exploitation of elephants in urban settings, highlighting the ongoing tension between tradition and animal welfare laws. Activists have urged authorities to reconsider, stating that such moves not only jeopardize the well-being of elephants but also challenge the progress made in protecting captive animals.