Target: Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan
Goal: Stop the exploitation and abuse of elephants in religious festivals.
A recent incident during a religious festival in Kerala, involving an elephant that injured at least 24 individuals and led to the tragic death of one man, highlights the pressing need for serious action against the use of elephants in such events. Footage appears to show the elephant swinging the man violently with its trunk before throwing him to the ground, underscoring the inherent dangers faced by both humans and animals when these majestic creatures are forced into performing in stressful and potentially abusive conditions.
The use of elephants in festivals is common throughout India; however, the behind-the-scenes cruelty of this industry is disturbing. Elephants are subjected to harsh treatment by handlers using bullhooks and are often kept in appalling conditions, leading to physical and psychological distress. Prolonged chaining, inadequate care, and forced performances can result in dangerous behaviors, as evidenced by the events at the Amber Fort and historical incidents documented by animal advocacy groups. Over the last 15 years, exploited elephants in Kerala reportedly caused the deaths of 526 people.
The demand for change is clear: it is crucial to ban the use of live elephants in religious ceremonies and transition to innovative, mechanical alternatives that PETA India has successfully introduced. These lifelike mechanical elephants promise to eliminate the cruelty faced by real elephants while allowing for safe community celebrations. Demand action to protect both elephants and the public from further tragedies.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan,
The recent incident in Kerala, where an elephant injured 24 people and caused the death of one man during a religious festival, underscores a growing crisis surrounding the exploitation of elephants in our cultural practices. The disturbing footage of this event, apparently showing the elephant violently throwing an individual, is a stark reminder of the dangers posed not only to humans but also to these intelligent and sensitive animals when subjected to abusive treatment.
The conditions in which many elephants are kept are appalling, involving physical abuse, neglect, and substantial psychological distress. It is widely known that the use of bullhooks and prolonged confinement can lead to dangerous outbursts from these animals, posing a serious risk during public events. The alarming statistics from Kerala, indicating 526 fatalities attributed to elephant incidents over a 15-year span, as well as numerous other injuries, demonstrate the urgent need for reform in how elephants are treated in religious contexts.
To avoid further tragedies and save elephants from their current plight, we respectfully urge you to ban the use of live elephants in religious celebrations and advocate for the use of mechanical elephants instead. This transition will not only enhance public safety but also protect elephants from continued abuse, allowing them to live with dignity in their natural environments. It is time for Kerala to lead the way in compassionate celebrations that prioritize the well-being of both its people and animals.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
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