Elephant Roopavathi was paraded in Muharram and Bonalu processions in Telangana despite her poor health. PETA India had written to the authorities with an offer to fund and facilitate the use of an ultra-realistic life-size mechanical elephant for the processions to spare her the gruelling journey and forced participation in them. Although she was used, Roopavathi can still be saved.
Cruelty to elephant Roopavathi during processions
Roopavathi suffers from arthritic changes in both forelegs, visual impairment and blindness in one eye, and cracked foot pads, causing discomfort and an increased risk of slipping on city streets. Concerns regarding transporting an unfit elephant for processions drew the attention of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, which temporarily halted her transport. However, deceitful health certificates allowed her journey and use.
PETA India has demanded the termination of the veterinarians who issued fraudulent health certificates leading to Roopavathi’s ordeal and is calling for her permanent relocation to a reputable sanctuary where she could be rehabilitated and live unchained in the company of other elephants.
The use of live elephants like Roopavathi in processions causes the animals extreme physical and psychological stress and is therefore dangerous to humans, as the animals often become violent as a result. Mechanical elephants, on the other hand, have a realistic appearance and can perform traditional functions, effectively replicating the experience of using a real elephant.
You can help, too!
Take action now by requesting that Roopavathi be seized and permanently relocated to a sanctuary where she could receive necessary urgent veterinary care and live in peace among other elephants.