An image of a distressed elephant with its trunk hanging out of a cramped truck on a national highway in Assam has sparked outrage from conservationists and animal rights activists across India.
The incident has cast a spotlight on the controversial transfer of nearly 100 elephants from Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in the northeast to a zoo-cum-rehabilitation centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, founded by billionaire Mukesh Ambani.
The photograph, captured near Barpeta Road on May 2nd, has become a rallying point for critics who question not only the cruel method of transportation but also the very purpose of relocating these majestic creatures from their natural habitat to a geographically and climatically unsuitable arid region.
While Manas Tiger Reserve authorities intercepted the vehicle, they ultimately allowed it to pass due to "valid elephant transfer documents."
This explanation has failed to appease conservationists who remain deeply disturbed by the practice.
"It is unfortunate that the government is going along with it," said Heidi Riddle, a prominent figure in elephant conservation circles. "I will try to help however I can."
Among the most concerning aspects of the transfer is the grueling journey the elephants are forced to endure. Jayanta Kumar Das, a vocal conservation activist, highlighted the dangers posed by transporting these massive animals for thousands of kilometers in cramped vehicles under sweltering heat.
"The elephant was desperately stretching its trunk through a small opening," Das said, raising concerns about potential electrocution from power lines or injuries from other hazards. He further emphasised that this practice continues unabated despite widespread protests.
Adding to the confusion is the stated purpose of rehabilitation.
Conservationists argue that if the intention is genuine, sanctuaries should be established within the elephants' natural habitats in the northeast.
"Why uproot them and subject them to such immense stress?" questioned Sangita Iyer, a leading voice for Asian elephants. She expressed dismay at the apparent complicity of various authorities, stating, "If the government approves these transfers, and the forest departments cooperate, then what hope is there to prevent such cruelty?"
The plight of these elephants has resonated with many. Netizens like Diganta Borah echoed concerns about the dangers of the journey, while Pradyut Bordoloi, a prominent politician, condemned the act as a reflection of the government's indifference towards the region's rich biodiversity.
The crux of the issue lies in habitat displacement. Gujarat boasts no wild elephant population, and the arid climate presents a stark contrast to the lush green forests of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, the natural range for Asian elephants.
"This blatant disregard for ethical treatment is appalling," said Mubina Akhtar, secretary of the Kaziranga Wildlife Society. "These intelligent creatures are being forced to travel long distances in stifling conditions, only to be relocated to an environment completely unsuited to their needs."
Akhtar further stressed that this constitutes a clear violation of wildlife protection laws.
She highlighted the inherent cruelty of displacing these magnificent creatures from their natural habitat to a foreign land with such vastly different climatic and geographical conditions.
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