Kolhapur's Silent March: A Call for Mahadevi's Return

Thousands in Kolhapur rallied for the return of Mahadevi, a 36-year-old elephant, from a wildlife center in Gujarat. Led by former MP Raju Shetty, the silent march aimed for Mahadevi to be brought back home. The issue has drawn political involvement and significant community support.

Thousands of Kolhapur residents took part in a silent march on Sunday, advocating for the return of Mahadevi, a 36-year-old elephant, from the Vantara wildlife center in Gujarat.

Former MP Raju Shetty led the demonstration which began in the morning from Nandani and ended at the district collectorate. There, a memorandum was submitted to authorities demanding Mahadevi's return.

The Bombay High Court had ruled for Mahadevi's transfer to the wildlife facility due to her deteriorating health and alleged psychological distress, a decision later upheld by the Supreme Court. However, local activists and politicians are pushing for her return to Kolhapur, claiming community ownership of the elephant.

(With inputs from agencies.)