Mumbai: The ongoing efforts to bring back Madhuri, the 36-year-old elephant, to Kolhapur's Nandani Math took a major turn on Wednesday, with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announcing plans for her return to Maharashtra and the establishment of a state-of-the-art rehabilitation centre in Kolhapur.
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis' Tweet
After an extensive discussion with the Vantara team in Mumbai, Fadnavis shared on X, “I had an extensive discussion with the Vantara team today in Mumbai. Good news is that they assured me that they are happy to join Maharashtra Government's petition before the Hon'ble Supreme Court for the smooth passage of the elephant 'Madhuri' back to the Math."
Aim Of The Move
The move aims to address the emotional and religious concerns of the local community while adhering to legal and welfare standards. At the heart of the proposal is a dedicated satellite facility designed to offer world-class care for Madhuri, who was moved to the Vantara facility in Gujarat following a Supreme Court directive. The Vantara team confirmed they do not seek custody of Madhuri and are committed to facilitating her safe return, pending the court’s approval.
Details On Features Of The Proposed Rehab Centre
The proposed rehabilitation centre, to be built in the Nandani region, is expected to feature a suite of facilities aligned with international best practices in elephant care. These include a specialised hydrotherapy pond to ease joint and muscular strain, a larger natural water body for swimming, a laser therapy room for physical rehabilitation, and an on-site veterinary clinic offering 24/7 medical care. Plans also include a covered night shelter, rubberised flooring for safety, a sand pit to promote natural behaviour, and soft sand mounds designed to ease symptoms of foot rot and arthritis.
Vantara To Work With Jain Matha & The State Govt
The Vantara team stated that land for the project will be selected in consultation with the Jain Matha and the Maharashtra government. Implementation will begin once approvals and grants are in place. The centre’s blueprint has been drawn up after consultations with experts from the High-Powered Committee and will involve direct coordination with both the Matha and state authorities. Madhuri, who lived for over three decades at the Nandani Math, was relocated after a court-directed health evaluation raised concerns, triggering widespread public protests in Kolhapur. Fadnavis confirmed that both the state and the Matha will jointly file a review petition in the Supreme Court seeking Madhuri’s return. In an official statement, Vantara acknowledged Madhuri’s cultural and religious significance and assured that their involvement was strictly based on judicial orders. The organisation reiterated its support for any legal steps taken to return her, promising full technical and veterinary assistance for the transfer.
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