Mon Dec 15 19:13:14 UTC 2025: Summary:

The Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, a Hindu Mutt, is seeking the return of its three elephants, Sandhya, Indu, and Jayanti, from a Tamil Nadu Forest Department rescue and rehabilitation center. The Madras High Court has ordered an inspection of a facility prepared by the Mutt to house the elephants, to determine if it meets the necessary standards. The court is also questioning the Forest Department about the standards of its own facilities, specifically regarding the existence of concrete sheds. The Mutt argues that it has created a suitable environment for the elephants and is ready to take them back as they are integral to temple rituals.

News Article:

Madras High Court Hears Case of Kanchi Mutt Seeking Return of Elephants

CHENNAI – The Madras High Court is currently hearing a case filed by the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, seeking the return of three elephants currently residing at a Tamil Nadu Forest Department rescue and rehabilitation center in M.R. Palayam. The Mutt claims it has created a suitable facility at Konerikuppam in Kancheepuram district, spanning 2.94 acres, to house the animals.

Justice V. Lakshminarayanan has ordered a second inspection of the Mutt’s facility to assess whether previously identified deficiencies have been rectified. The court has also directed the government to explain whether the Forest Department’s own elephant rescue centers meet the same standards they are demanding of private owners, particularly concerning the provision of concrete sheds for the elephants.

The Mutt’s counsel argues that the elephants, named Sandhya, Indu, and Jayanti, are essential to temple rituals and that the Mutt is now prepared to provide adequate care. They claim to have built well-ventilated metal roof sheds, a pond for bathing, and facilities for preparing food and medicine. They also own grasslands to provide the necessary 200 kg of fodder per elephant, per day. The elephants were originally placed in the care of the Forest Department after a public interest litigation in 2019 prompted their relocation from a private institution. The next hearing has been scheduled for January 6.

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