THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

JAMNAGAR, SEPTEMBER 11, 2026

Vantara on Friday said it would fully comply with the High-Powered Committee’s (HPC) order permitting the return of elephant Madhuri, known as Mahadevi in Kolhapur, to the city, while asserting that her welfare would remain its foremost concern.

Madhuri was brought to Vantara in Jamnagar on July 30, 2025, in compliance with directions of the HPC that were subsequently upheld by the Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court, the animal welfare facility said in a statement.

 “Vantara did not seek her custody. It received her and cared for her because it was directed to do so,” it said.

The HPC, after hearing the parties, seeking reports and inspecting the facility at Nandani, passed a reasoned order on September 9, 2026, permitting Madhuri to return to Kolhapur subject to strict conditions, including a prohibition on her use in processions or for any other purpose.

The conditions also require Madhuri to receive round-the-clock care and undergo a medical examination every fortnight.

 “Vantara respects the authority of the HPC and will comply fully with its directions,” the statement said.

Vantara said it understood the deep sentiments surrounding Madhuri in Kolhapur and had, following discussions with the Maharashtra government, its officers, stakeholders and members of the community, stated in August 2025 that it respected those sentiments and would abide by directions of the competent authorities.

The facility said its position on Madhuri had always been guided by veterinary science and her welfare. While her condition had been stabilised through sustained veterinary care, her chronic ailments had not disappeared and she continued to require appropriate care, supportive management and regular veterinary monitoring.

Vantara said its responsibility towards Madhuri would not end with her return to Kolhapur and that it had worked to support her transition by helping ensure that appropriate living conditions, veterinary infrastructure, medical equipment, medicines and other necessities were available.

Its veterinarians will visit Madhuri in Kolhapur every fortnight for her medical examination and submit reports to the competent authorities, as directed by the HPC, it said.

 “This is about continuity of care and safeguarding her welfare, wherever she is housed,” Vantara said.

The facility also said it had worked on the enclosure and facility at Nandani where Madhuri is returning and had put in place the best possible arrangements within the available infrastructure.

Further infrastructure improvements could not be undertaken at this stage due to town planning constraints, it said, adding that a road passing through the land of the Trust had limited the area available for development.

Vantara said it would remain available to the Math for further upgradation of the facility once Madhuri had settled in and would also assist in such improvements if directed by the courts or competent authorities.

 “Genuine animal welfare requires facts, veterinary science, responsible care, respect for due process and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding life forever,” the statement said.

Vantara expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court, Bombay High Court and the HPC for their directions and thanked the governments of Maharashtra and Gujarat and their officials for their support.

It also thanked the Mutt and people of Kolhapur for their concern for Madhuri and acknowledged the role of PETA India in bringing her condition before the HPC.

 “Madhuri’s wellbeing remains Vantara’s first concern. Our commitment to her health, welfare and dignity does not depend on where she lives,” it said, wishing the elephant “good health and a long, safe and happy life”.