Thiruvananthapuram: The Forest and Wildlife Minister A.K. Shashidharan stated that the department will consider filing an appeal if necessary after reviewing the High Court’s guidelines regarding elephant processions, including maintaining a specified distance from crowds and musical performances, as well as the time schedules. He emphasized that steps are needed to ensure that traditional festivals, such as Thrissur Pooram, can be conducted without hindrances. Ensuring the safety of the public and the protection of elephants involved in these festivals is crucial. Therefore, practical aspects will be studied before taking further action.
The High Court’s guidelines issued yesterday are based on the rules outlined in the 2012 Central Government circular on elephant care, the Supreme Court’s order from August 18, 2015, and other related issues brought to the court’s attention. To discuss the draft guidelines for elephant management, a meeting with stakeholders, including senior officials, will be held at the Forest Department headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram on the 20th of this month. The meeting will be conducted in a workshop format.
