HC: Can't allowjumbo parade at private events

KOCHI: Parading of elephants for private functions or inaugurations should not be allowed, nor should introduction of new rituals or the revival of dormant ones involving animals be permitted, said the amicus curiae appointed by Kerala HC in his report submitted to the division bench of justices A K Jayasankaran Nambiar and P Gopinath.

HC had initiated suo moto proceedings on the plight of captive elephants, and appointed advocate T C Suresh Menon as the amicus curiae to recommend measures for their welfare.

In his report, Menon recommended prohibiting activities such as head-lifting contests, saluting and showering of flowers by elephants. Additionally, the report said, elephants over age of 65 should not be made to take part in the parades. The bench adjourned the hearing to next Tuesday for framing of draft guidelines for elephant parades.

The report stated that the parading of elephants should be restricted to festivals at temples, churches or mosques. The report also made a host of recommendations regarding the transportation of jumbos.