The People for Cattle in India (PFCI), a Chennai-based animal welfare organization, has filed an Implead Petition with the Gauhati High Court, seeking the immediate rescue and rehabilitation of Jeymalyatha (Joymala), a captive elephant from Assam. The organization alleges that Joymala has been subjected to years of severe abuse and illegal captivity at Arulmigu Nachiyar (Andal) Temple in Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu.
Joymala was originally sent to Tamil Nadu under a temporary interstate transfer order, but that permission expired in 2013. Despite this, she has remained in captivity for over a decade, with Tamil Nadu authorities failing to facilitate her return to Assam or improve her living conditions. PFCI has now taken legal action, demanding her immediate release and transfer to a wildlife sanctuary where she can live freely, unchained, and without further mistreatment.
Allegations of Abuse and Illegal Captivity
PFCI has raised serious concerns about Joymala’s welfare, accusing temple authorities and her caretakers (mahouts) of repeated physical abuse and severe neglect. The organization has submitted video evidence from February 2021 and June 2022, showing Joymala being brutally beaten by her mahouts while being held at the temple. The shocking visuals highlight the harsh treatment she has endured for years, sparking outrage among animal rights activists.
In addition to video footage, PFCI has presented inspection reports from the District Level Captive Elephants Welfare Committee (DLEWC) in 2022 and 2023. These reports highlight:
- Prolonged tethering: Joymala is kept chained for extended periods, restricting her movement.
- Inadequate nutrition: She is not receiving a proper diet to maintain her health.
- Lack of proper exercise: The elephant is deprived of the physical activity necessary for her well-being.
- Extreme stress: Long-term mistreatment has caused severe psychological distress.
According to PFCI, these conditions violate standard animal welfare guidelines, including the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Ministry of Environment and Forests’ 2008 guidelines for captive elephants.
Tamil Nadu Authorities Under Scrutiny
Despite multiple reports and complaints from wildlife conservationists, Tamil Nadu authorities have failed to take major action to improve Joymala’s condition or return her to Assam.
PFCI points out that in June 2023, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department’s Deputy Director acknowledged Joymala’s poor living conditions but did not enforce any corrective measures. The organization claims that local authorities have continued to ignore welfare concerns, allowing her captivity and abuse to persist.
To address this issue, PFCI has proposed an alternative solution for the temple – replacing live elephants with mechanical elephants for religious ceremonies. This humane alternative, already implemented in some Kerala temples, would allow cultural and religious traditions to continue without harming real elephants.
Police Complaint Against Temple Authorities
In addition to filing a legal petition, PFCI has lodged a police complaint against temple authorities and mahouts for physical assault and intimidation.
The situation escalated on December 23, 2024, when PFCI founder Arun Prasanna G. visited the temple to document Joymala’s condition. During the visit, he was allegedly attacked by a mahout and temple staff. When he attempted to file a First Information Report (FIR) at the local police station, his request was reportedly denied. The matter was then escalated to the Superintendent of Police, Virudhunagar District.
PFCI has condemned these actions as an attempt to silence activists fighting for Joymala’s rights. The organization has urged higher authorities to intervene and ensure that those responsible for her mistreatment face legal consequences.
Legal Action and Demand for Rescue
In its petition to the Gauhati High Court, PFCI has argued that keeping Joymala in the temple violates legal provisions, including:
- The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 – which regulates the possession and treatment of wild animals in captivity.
- The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 – which prohibits the abuse and neglect of animals.
- The Ministry of Environment and Forests’ 2008 guidelines – which set welfare standards for captive elephants.
PFCI is demanding Joymala’s immediate rescue and relocation to a wildlife sanctuary, where she can recover from years of abuse and live in a natural environment. The organization insists that urgent action is needed to ensure she is removed from harmful captivity and placed under professional rehabilitation and care.
The case of Joymala has reignited debates on the treatment of captive elephants in India, especially in religious institutions. While temples have long used elephants for ceremonies, the increasing awareness of animal rights and welfare has led to growing opposition against their captivity.
PFCI’s legal intervention in the Gauhati High Court is a crucial step in securing justice for Joymala and setting a precedent for captive elephant welfare in India. The organization continues to call for stronger enforcement of animal protection laws and ethical treatment of wildlife.
As the legal battle unfolds, wildlife activists, conservationists, and animal lovers across the country are watching closely, hoping that Joymala will soon be rescued from captivity and given the freedom she deserves.
