Petition in SC against future use of tranquilisers on Arikomban

New Delhi: A petition was moved in Supreme Court against the future use of tranquilisers against wild tusker 'Arikomban' in Tamil Nadu. The petitioner also demanded that concerned state governments must be directed to ensure proper medical care for Arikomban. 

Earlier this month, rice-eating Arikomban was tranquilised by the Tamil Nadu forest department and shifted to the Upper Kodayar area of Muthukuzhi forest. A few days later, the elephant moved to Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary. 

Worries remained over whether the government would be forced to tranquilise the elephant again. 

Amidst this, a petition filed by 'Walking Eye Foundation for Animal Advocacy- WEFAA' claimed that the wild tusker --translocated twice from forest reserves in Kerala and Tamil Nadu-- has been facing health issues due to the continuous use of tranquilisers. The elephant suffered several injuries during government operations. Arikomban is not adapting to its current habitat. This is affecting the elephant's health, the petitioner claims.

WEFAA also requested the court to direct the state governments to file a report regarding the health condition of the elephant. In addition to it, the petitioner demands appointing an expert committee to study elephant corridors, the conservation of their habitats, and measures to avoid human-animal conflicts.