Vantara Did Not Seek Elephant Madhuri’s Acquisition, It Was Ordered By HC: SIT

Last Updated:September 15, 2025, 19:40 IST

“The acquisition was not sought by the Radhe Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust (RKTEWT). The transfer took place pursuant to an order of the Bombay High Court…,” said SIT

There were protests over shifting of Madhuri from Kolhapur to Vantara in Jamnagar. (Instagram/File)

Vantara did not seek elephant Mahadevi or Madhuri’s acquisition from Kolhapur, the Supreme Court’s Special Investigation Team (SIT), which looked into the affairs at the Jamnagar facility, said in its probe report. The SC perused and accepted the report on Monday.

“The acquisition was not sought by the Radhe Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust (RKTEWT). The transfer took place pursuant to an order of the Bombay High Court, which upheld the decision of the High-Powered Committee. The said High Court Order was later affirmed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court,” said the SIT.

The shifting of Madhuri from Kolhapur to Jamnagar had led to protests. Vantara had clarified the same stance then, even offering to set up satellite rehabilitation centre for Madhuri in Kolhapur’s Nandani.

“Vantara acknowledges the deep religious and cultural significance that Madhuri holds for the Jain Math and the people of Kolhapur. For decades, she has been an integral part of deep-rooted spiritual practices and community life. We recognise and respect the sentiments of the devotees, the leadership of the Jain Math, and the wider community who have expressed their concerns and attachment to Madhuri’s presence in Kolhapur,” Vantara had said.

“Vantara’s involvement in this matter has been limited to acting strictly in accordance to the binding directions issued by the Hon’ble Supreme Court and the Hon’ble Bombay High Court. The decision to relocate Madhuri was taken under judicial authority, and Vantara’s role was to provide care, veterinary support, and housing as an independent rescue and rehabilitation centre. At no stage did Vantara initiate or recommend the relocation, nor was there any intent to interfere with religious practice or sentiment. In alignment with our commitment to lawful conduct, responsible animal care, and community cooperation, Vantara will extend full support to *any application filed by the Jain Math and the Government of Maharashtra* before the Hon’ble Court requesting Madhuri’s return to Kolhapur. Subject to the Court’s approval, Vantara will provide complete technical and veterinary assistance for her safe and dignified return,” Vantara had said.

Furthermore, Vantara will work in close coordination with the Jain Math and the State Government to establish a satellite rehabilitation centre for Madhuri in the Nandani area of Kolhapur. The proposed facility will be developed in accordance to the established animal welfare guidelines, after consultation with experts from the High-Powered Committee and consensus of the Math, while aligned to international best practices in elephant care.

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