Wed Oct 29 08:08:25 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tamil Nadu Elephant Population Thrives, Sparking Debate Over Relocation Plan
CHENNAI – October 29, 2025 – The Madras High Court today heard arguments concerning the proposed relocation of an elephant calf from Uttarakhand to the Nellaiappar temple in Tamil Nadu, amidst news of a thriving elephant population in the state.
Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava expressed satisfaction with the latest synchronized elephant population estimation, revealing an increase from 3,063 in 2024 to 3,170 in 2025 across Tamil Nadu’s five elephant reserves. He highlighted this growth as “something very good,” while contrasting it with challenges faced in other states due to habitat destruction.
Sharing his concern over habitat destruction, the Chief Justice cited a situation in his home state of Chhattisgarh, where mining activity has decimated elephant habitats, forcing them into human settlements and creating conflict. The state has established an elephant camp operated with the Forest Department and NGOs to mitigate the problems.
The case before the court, a public interest litigation filed by People for Cattle in India (PFCI), contests the proposed transfer of an elephant calf to replace a deceased temple elephant. PFCI argues that separating the calf from its herd would cause lifelong trauma and reduce its lifespan.
Senior counsel Satish Parasaran, representing PFCI, emphasized the detrimental effects of captivity on wild elephants. The Advocate General P.S. Raman, countered that the proposal is in its initial stages, and no final decision has been made. He requested time to consult with the Forest Department.
The court has issued notices to the Tamil Nadu government and the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments department, deferring a notice to the Uttarakhand Forest Department. The debate highlights the complex balance between cultural traditions, animal welfare, and conservation efforts in India.
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