People for Cattle in India (PFCI), a Chennai-based animal welfare NGO, has called for immediate action against the custodians and mahouts of a temple elephant housed in Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu. The NGO has requested authorities to take action following disturbing video footage that shows the elephant being controlled through intimidation and threats, using banned iron ankushes. PFCI has highlighted the elephant's history of abuse and stressed the urgent need for her rescue and rehabilitation. The organisation has also drawn attention to ongoing welfare failures in the elephant's care and insists on accountability for those responsible. Captive elephants under extreme stress can become unpredictable and pose a threat to both the elephant and the community, making this a critical issue for humane management.
Elephant Mahout Thiruchendur Chennai: Abuse and Neglect Exposed
Recent events have brought to light the shocking mistreatment of a temple elephant in Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu. The disturbing footage of the elephant being controlled through intimidation and threats has sparked outrage among animal welfare organizations and the general public.
Background
The elephant in question, named Thiruchendur, has been housed at the Srivilliputhur temple for over 20 years. During this time, she has allegedly been subjected to severe abuse and neglect.
In 2017, the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) issued a notice to the temple authorities, citing concerns about the elephant's welfare. Inspections revealed that Thiruchendur was overweight, had an untreated wound on her trunk, and showed signs of psychological distress.
Current Events
In February 2023, a video surfaced online showing the elephant being controlled using banned iron ankushes. The footage depicts the mahouts using the sharp hooks to prod and beat the animal, causing her visible pain and distress.
Response from Animal Welfare Organizations
People for Cattle in India (PFCI), a Chennai-based NGO, has condemned the incident and called for immediate action against the temple authorities and mahouts responsible for the abuse. The organization has highlighted Thiruchendur's history of neglect and emphasized the urgent need for her rescue and rehabilitation.
Consequences of Elephant Abuse
Captive elephants that are subjected to prolonged abuse and stress can become unpredictable and pose a threat to both the elephant and the community. They may exhibit aggressive behavior, engage in self-harm, or become dangerous to handle.
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