The Kerala High Court on Thursday directed the State government to constitute a team to conduct a comprehensive survey on captive elephants across the State.
The directive was essential to ensure accountability and care of captive elephants, the court said and added that the team under the supervision of the Chief Wildlife Officer should verify the number of elephants, their ownership status, and whether they are in the custody of individuals or institutions, with valid documents.
It further sought a consolidated report, while the State government was instructed to submit the details of officers who would be part of the team. The court was considering petitions that highlighted the plight of captive elephants in the State and the need for regulations to ensure their welfare.
Published – December 19, 2024 08:34 pm IST
