Madhuri Elephant Vantara has become a major topic of discussion across Maharashtra and the entire country. The controversy surrounding the transfer of Madhuri, also known as Mahadevi, from Kolhapur to Vantara’s animal rescue and rehabilitation centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, has sparked emotional reactions, protests, and now a legal battle. The Maharashtra government has officially announced that it will file a review petition in the Supreme Court (SC) to bring Madhuri back to her home in Nandani village, Kolhapur.
Public Uproar Over Madhuri Elephant Vantara Transfer
The decision to shift Madhuri to Vantara was met with massive opposition from the people of Kolhapur and Sangli district. Villagers organized protests, signature campaigns, and rallies to oppose the elephant’s relocation from the Swastishri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Sansthan Mutt. They claim that Madhuri is not just an elephant but a symbol of their cultural heritage and religious sentiments.
One of the most significant movements was the “Boycott Jio and Reliance Products” campaign, where over 2 lakh people signed petitions and sent them to President Droupadi Murmu. A peaceful protest march covering around 40 km from Nandani to Kolhapur also highlighted the villagers’ emotional connection with Madhuri.
Maharashtra Government’s Stand on Madhuri Elephant Vantara Case
Following a high-level review meeting on August 5, 2025, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the Maharashtra government will approach the Supreme Court with a review petition. The government aims to challenge the court’s previous order and seek Madhuri’s return from Vantara.
CM Fadnavis emphasized, “We will request the Supreme Court to reconsider the order and also demand the formation of an independent committee to investigate the entire matter regarding Madhuri Elephant Vantara transfer.”
He further assured that once Madhuri is back, the state will form a dedicated care team including expert veterinarians to look after her health and well-being. If required, the government is also prepared to set up a specialized elephant rescue and rehabilitation centre in Maharashtra.
PETA’s Role and Political Reactions
The transfer of Madhuri Elephant to Vantara was initially ordered by the Bombay High Court and later upheld by the Supreme Court, following a petition filed by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). PETA argued that Madhuri was in poor health and needed professional veterinary care which Vantara could provide.
However, several political leaders and local activists disagree. Former MP Raju Shetti accused PETA of misleading the courts and attempting to disrupt cultural traditions by removing elephants from temples and religious institutions. “PETA is stealing elephants under the guise of animal welfare. We have capable rehabilitation centers in Gadchiroli district, Karnataka, and Kerala. Their claims are false, and we will expose this fraud soon,” Shetti stated. He also announced that the “Ban Jio” movement would now be expanded nationwide.
Congress MLC Satej Patil echoed similar concerns. He stated that filing a review petition in the Supreme Court is the only viable option now. “The High Power Committee (HPC) made its recommendations based on the Forest Department’s report. But the government’s active intervention is crucial, and we hope for a favorable outcome,” Patil said.
Also read: The Complete Story of Mahadevi-Madhuri: From Chains in Kolhapur to Freedom at Vantara Jamnaga
Emotional Farewell and Awaiting Justice for Madhuri Elephant Vantara
On July 30, villagers of Kolhapur bid a heartfelt farewell to Madhuri when she was taken to Vantara following the court’s order. The emotional scenes witnessed that day reflected the deep bond between Madhuri and the local community. For them, Madhuri is not just an animal but a part of their cultural identity, involved in temple rituals and village ceremonies for years.
While Vantara is known for its world-class facilities for rescued and ailing animals, the people of Kolhapur argue that Madhuri’s emotional well-being is equally important, which can only be ensured in her home environment. They believe that no amount of luxury or advanced care can replace the love and care she receives from her local caretakers.
Also read: Is Vantara Open to the Public Today? Everything You Need to Know
What Lies Ahead in the Madhuri Elephant Vantara Case?
The Maharashtra government’s decision to move the Supreme Court marks a critical step in this ongoing battle. The case of Madhuri Elephant Vantara has now evolved beyond a legal matter; it has become a national issue that raises questions about animal rights, cultural sentiments, and the responsibilities of the government and judiciary in balancing both.
As the legal process unfolds, millions are awaiting the outcome. Will Madhuri continue to stay at Vantara under the supervision of animal welfare experts, or will she return to the familiar grounds of Kolhapur where generations of devotees await her return? The answer lies with the Supreme Court, but what remains clear is that Madhuri’s journey has captured the hearts of people far and wide, making her a symbol of tradition, compassion, and the struggle for justice.
