Sign the Petition
Target: Konda Surekha, Minister of Forest and Environment, Telangana, India
Goal: Ensure Rupavathi receives proper medical care and is not used in any processions.
Amid serious health concerns and an intervention from the Union government, elephant Rupavathi is being transported from Karnataka to Telangana for the Muharram and Bonalu processions in Hyderabad. Rupavathi was temporarily held en route after People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) highlighted her apparent ailments. PETA has offered a mechanical elephant as an alternative, emphasizing that Rupavathi shows signs of prolonged physical suffering and requires rehabilitation at a reputable sanctuary.
Veterinary experts informed PETA that Rupavathi is unfit for transportation and participation in events due to her arthritic forelimbs, blindness in one eye, and flattened foot pads, which increase her risk of slipping on city roads. Despite these concerns, officials have reportedly approved her transport to Hyderabad. The elephant’s journey began after Telangana Forest Minister Konda Surekha made arrangements to bring Rupavathi from the Sri Jagadguru Panchacharya Mandir Trust in Karnataka. Take action now.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Konda Surekha,
I am writing to express my grave concern regarding the transportation and use of the ailing elephant Rupavathi for Muharram and Bonalu processions in Hyderabad. Veterinary assessments indicate that Rupavathi is suffering from severe health issues, including arthritis, blindness in one eye, and flattened foot pads, making her unfit for such strenuous activities.
Rupavathi’s participation in these events appears to not only pose a significant risk to her health and well-being, but to also endanger public safety. Elephants, when subjected to loud noises and chaotic environments, can become agitated and potentially harmful to themselves and others. Additionally, using animals in such processions is a violation of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960.
I urge you to take immediate action to halt Rupavathi’s transport and ensure she receives the necessary medical care and rehabilitation at a reputable sanctuary. PETA’s offer to use a mechanical elephant instead provides a humane alternative that respects both animal welfare and cultural traditions.
Your prompt intervention is crucial in safeguarding Rupavathi’s health and preventing any further suffering. Let us uphold the principles of compassion and responsibility by ensuring that no animal is subjected to such distressing conditions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Tilak Reddy
