High Court of KeralaDivision BenchWrit petition disposed of with directions; inte...

P Prem Kumar v. Travancore Devaswom Board and others

Case / Petition Number:WP(C) No.12852 of 2021

Case Details & Bench

Court
High Court of Kerala
Hon'ble Judges
  • Anil K. Narendran
  • P. G. Ajithkumar
Judgment Date
2022-07-26
Court Decision / Holding
The writ petition is disposed of with directions. The interim orders dated 04.04.2022 and 08.04.2022 are made absolute. All concerned are directed to strictly comply with the Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012, particularly Rule 10, and to ensure compliance with provisions of Section 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. In temples under Travancore Devaswom Board, circular No. ROC7199/98 (22.10.1998) and proceedings of 23.10.2000 shall be followed; for Cochin, Malabar, Guruvayur, and Koodalmanikkyam Devaswoms, the court’s orders on compliance shall be followed. A five‑month period is granted to ensure the investigation into the elephant’s death reaches a logical conclusion, with appropriate action against responsible parties.
Final Disposition
Writ petition disposed of with directions; interim orders made absolute and compliance directions issued; five‑month deadline to conclude related proceedings.

Parties to the Case

Appellants / Petitioners

  • P Prem Kumar

Respondents

  • Travancore Devaswom Board
  • District Collector, Alappuzha
  • Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Head of Forest Force)
  • District Police Chief, Alappuzha
  • Commissioner Travancore Devaswom Board
  • District Committee constituted under Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance Rules)
  • G. Baiju
  • Dr. Saseendradev
  • K. Manoj Kumar
  • Pradeep (1st Mahout)
  • Ajeesh (2nd Mahout)
  • State of Kerala (Secretary to Government, Forest & Wildlife Dept.)
  • Cochin Devaswom Board
  • Malabar Devaswom Board
  • Guruvayur Devaswom Managing Committee
  • Sree Koodal Manikkyam Devaswom
  • State of Kerala (additional respondents)
  • Cochin Devaswom Board (additional)
  • Malabar Devaswom Board (additional)
  • Guruvayur Devaswom Board (additional)
  • Koodalmanikyam Devaswom (additional)

Legal Representation & Advocates

Counsels for Petitioners

  • • R. Krishna Raj
  • • E.S. Soni
  • • Kumari Sangeetha S. Nair

Counsels for Respondents

  • • Nagarajan Narayanan (Special Govt. Pleader for Forest)
  • • G. Biju
  • • K.R. Sunil
  • • N. Mahesh
  • • K. Sasikumar
  • • Bobby George
  • • T.P. Pradeep
  • • Minikumar y M.V.
  • • S. Aravind
  • • Aiswarya Venugopal
  • • Krishna Suresh
  • • Eashwary.V
  • • Joy C. Paul
  • • S. Rajmohan (Sr. Government Pleader)
  • • K.P. Sudheer (Standing Counsel - Cochin Devaswom Board)
  • • R. Lakshmi Narayan (Standing Counsel - Malabar Devaswom Board)
  • • T.K. Vipindas (Standing Counsel - Guruvayur Devaswom Managing Committee)
  • • S. Sujin (Standing Counsel - Sree Koodal Manikkyam Devaswom)

Case Synopsis & Summary

The petitioner, P Prem Kumar, filed a writ petition under Article 226 seeking a high‑level committee to inquire into the death of Ambalapuzha Vijayakrishnan, a 52‑year‑old elephant owned by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), who died on 8 April 2021. The petitioner also sought mandamus directing the TDB to initiate strict action against respondents 7–11 for alleged cruelty and negligence, and to appoint qualified veterinary surgeons for captive elephants. The Respondents opposed the relief, arguing that a three‑member special team conducted an inquiry, which concluded there was cruelty by the first mahout and dereliction by TDB staff, with recommended departmental action; the Forest Department and the TDB had already initiated steps and conducted inquiries, including a Vigilance inquiry. The Court examined the statutory framework: the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972; the Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012 (notably Rules 4, 10 and related sub‑clauses); and provisions like Section 51 and Section 64(2). The judgment emphasizes adherence to the rules governing elephant welfare and parading practices, and it cites Sree Kumar v. Travancore Devaswom Board (2005) for the custodial duty over animals. Ultimately, the Court made interim orders absolute, directed strict compliance, and disposed of the petition with a five‑month timeline to conclude the death proceedings, while ensuring proper action under the statutory regime.

Provisions of Law Cited

Article 226 of the Constitution of IndiaWildlife (Protection) Act, 1972Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012Section 64(2) of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972Section 51 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972First proviso to sub-section (1) of Section 51Second proviso to sub-section (1) of Section 51Rule 4 (sub-rule (1), (17), (18)) of Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012Rule 10 (sub-rule (1) to (4)) of Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012Chapter VA and section 38J of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

Submissions & Arguments

Contentions of Appellants / Petitioners

The petitioner contends that the death of Ambalapuzha Vijayakrishnan signals systemic cruelty and neglect in the management of captive elephants. It seeks a high‑level independent inquiry, strict action against those responsible (including mahouts and staff), and appointment of qualified veterinary professionals. The prayer includes mandamus to enforce compliance with Kerala Captive Elephants Rules 2012, to regulate parading practices during temple festivals, and to ensure welfare measures.

Contentions of Respondents

The respondents submit that investigations were already conducted (special team report Ext.R3, Vigilance inquiry) and action has been initiated against involved officials. They assert the existing statutory framework and circulars guide parading and care for captive elephants, with ongoing forest and Devaswom department oversight. They emphasize that the Board has acted within law and that grave steps should follow statutory procedures rather than creating special committees.

Cited Precedents (1)

Case NameCitationTreatmentExplanation
Sree Kumar v. Travancore Devaswom Board2005 (1) KLT 43PositiveCourt cites this decision to affirm the custodial duty of the Board over elephants and its link to cruelty under protection statutes.

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Extracted Judgment Text

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``` IN THE HIGH COURT OF KERALA AT ERNAKULAM ``` ``` PRESENT ``` ``` THE HONOURABLE MR. JUSTICE ANIL K.NARENDRAN ``` ``` & ``` ``` THE HONOURABLE MR.JUSTICE P.G. AJITHKUMAR ``` ``` TUESDAY, THE 26[TH] DAY OF JULY 2022 / 4TH SRAVANA, 1944 WP(C) NO. 12852 OF 2021 ``` ``` PETITIONER: ``` ``` P PREMA KUMAR ``` ``` AGED 64 YEARS, THOTTUMKARA MADOM, WESTERN GATE, AMBALAPPUZHA P.O., PIN - 688 561 ``` ``` BY ADVS. R.KRISHNA RAJ E.S.SONI KUMARI SANGEETHA S.NAIR ``` ## **`RESPONDENTS:`** - **`1 TRAVANCORE DEVASWOM BOARD - TDB REPRESENTED BY ITS SECREETARY, NANTHANCODE, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM 695 003`** - **`2 THE DISTRICT COLLECTOR, ALAPPUZHA 688 001`** ``` 3STATE OF KERALAPRINCIPAL CHIEF CONSERVATOR OF FORESTS (HEAD OF FOREST FORCE) FORCE HEADQUAR- TERS, VAZHUTHACAUD, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM 695 014 ``` ``` 4THE DISTRICT POLICE CHIEF DISTRICT POLICE OFFICE, ALAPPUZHA, PIN-688 012 ``` W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 2 - **`5 COMMISSIONER TRAVANCORE DEVASWOM BOARD, NANTHANCODE, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM 695 003`** - **`6 DISTRICT COMMITTEE CONSTITUTED UNDER KERALA CAPTIVE ELEPHANTS (MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE ELEPHANTS(MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE RULES), REPRESENTED BY ITS CHAIRMAN AND DISTRICT COLLECTOR, ALAPPUZHA 688 001`** - **`7 G. BAIJU, DEPUTY COMMISSIONER, TRAVANCORE DEVASWOM BOARD, HARIPPAD 690 514`** - **`8 DR. SASEENDRADEV RETIRED VETERINARY SURGEON, S/O. PANDIT NARAYANADEV, SREENIKETHAN, MUTTAMBALAM P.O, KANJIKKUZHI KOTTAYAM 686 004`** - **`9 K. MANOJ KUMAR, ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER, AMBALAPPUZHA SREEKRISHNA SWAMY TEMPLE, ALAPPUZHA 688 561`** - **`10 PRADEEP 1ST MAHOUT OF AMBALAPPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN, AMBALAPPUZHA DEVASWOM, AMBALAPPUZHA 688 561`** - **`11 AJEESH 2ND MAHOUT OF AMBALAPPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN, AMBALAPPUZHA DEVASWOM, AMBALAPPUZHA 688 561`** - **`12 ADDL.R12: STATE OF KERALA, REPRESENTED BY THE SECRETARY TO GOVERNMENT, FOREST AND WILD LIFE DEPARTMENT, GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM - 695001.`** - **`13 ADDL.R13: COCHIN DEVASWOM BOARD, REPRESENTED BY ITS SECRETARY ROUND NORTH, THRISSUR - 680001`** - **`14 ADDL.R14: MALABAR DEVASWOM BOARD, REPRESENTED BY ITS COMMISSIONER & SECRETARY, HOUSE FED COMPLEX, ERANHIPPALAM P.O., KOZHIKODE - 673006.`** W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 3 - **`15 ADDL.R15: GURUVAYUR DEVASWOM MANAGING COMMITTEE, REPRESENTED BY ITS ADMINISTRATOR, OFFICE OF THE MANAGING COMMITTEE, SREEPADMAM, EAST NADA,, GURUVAYUR, THRISSUR, PIN - 680101.`** ``` 16ADDL.R16: SREE KOODAL MANIKYAM DEVASWOM, REPRESENTED BY ITS ADMINISTRATOR, OFFICE OF SREEKOODALMANIKYAM DEVASWOM, IRINGALAKUDA, THRISSUR DISTRICT PIN - 680121. ADDL. R12 TO R16 ARE SUO MOTU IMPLEADED AS PER ORDER DATED 24.05.2022. ``` ``` BY ADVS. SC, TRAVANCORE DEVASWOM BOARD - TDB SHRI.NAGARAJ NARAYANAN, SPL. G.P. (FOREST) SHRI.G.BIJU,SC,TRAVANCORE DEVASWOM BOARD K.R.SUNIL N.MAHESH K.SASIKUMAR BOBBY GEORGE T.P.PRADEEP MINIKUMARY M.V. S.ARAVIND AISWARYA VENUGOPAL KRISHNA SURESH EASHWARY.V JOY C. PAUL ``` ``` SRI S.RAJMOHAN- SR GOVERNMENT PLEADER ; SRI K.P.SUDHEER - STANDING COUNSEL -COCHIN DEVASWOM BOARD ; SRI R. LAKSHMI NARAYAN- STANDING COUN- SEL- MALABAR DEVASWOM BOARD ; SRI T.K.VIPINDAS - STANDING COUNSEL -GURUVAYUR DEVASWOM MANAGING COMMITTEE ; SRI S .SUJIN- STANDING COUNSEL - SREE KOODAL MANIKKYAM DEVASWOM ``` ``` THIS WRIT PETITION (CIVIL) HAVING COME UP FOR ADMISSION ON 26.07.2022, THE COURT ON THE SAME DAY DELIVERED THE FOLLOWING: ``` W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 4 ## **“CR”** ## **JUDGMENT** ## **Anil K. Narendran, J.** The petitioner has filed this writ petition under Article 226 of the Constitution of India, seeking an order to constitute a high level committee to enquire into the death of an elephant by name 'Ambalapuzha Vijayakrishnan' owned by the 1[st] respondent Travancore Devaswom Board, which died on 08.04.2021. The petitioner has also sought for a writ of mandamus commanding the 1[st] respondent Board to initiate strict action against respondents 7 to 11 for the unnatural death of the said elephant; and a writ of mandamus commanding the 1[st] respondent Board to appoint qualified Veterinary Surgeons. 2. On 29.06.2021, when this writ petition came up for admission, this Court admitted the matter on file. The learned Standing Counsel for Travancore Devaswom Board took notice for respondents 1 and 5. The learned Government Pleader took notice for respondents 2 to 4 and 6. Notice to respondents 7 to 11 was dispensed with. Thereafter, by the order dated 14.09.2021, this Court issued notice by speed post to respondents 7 to 11. W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 5 3. On 30.11.2021, the 3[rd] respondent Principle Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and the Chief Wildlife Warden, Kerala has filed a counter affidavit, wherein it is stated that, in connection with the unnatural death of the elephant 'Ambalapuzha Vijayakrishnan' (Microchip No. 00065DE38C), aged 52 years, a three member special team was constituted vide Ext.R3(b) proceedings dated 09.04.2021, which submitted Ext.R3(c) report dated 02.07.2021. The findings of the special team in Ext.R3(c) report are as follows; “1) The first mahout Sri. B. Pradeep of TDB melted cruelty to “Vijayakrishnan” by torturing, and not providing adequate medical treatment for “Vijayakrishnan", which resulted in his death. Action to be initiated against the said mahout under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012. 2) TDB officials namely, Sri. Baiju, Deputy Devaswom Commissioner, Harippad, Sri. K. Jayakumar, Asst. Devasom Commissioner, Sri. K. Manoj Kumar, Administrative Officer, Ambalappuzha Temple, Sri. Ajeesh, Second Mahout, and Dr. Dr. Saseendradev Veterinarian engaged by TDB on contract basis erred in providing adequate protection and care for the elephant and hence departmental action has be initiated against them by the W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 6 ## TDB authorities. 3) The Assistant Conservator of Forests, Social Forestry, Alappuzha to include in his investigation the allegations that the first mahout used to bring his friends for showing how to tame the elephant “Vijayakrishnan” by beating him and also the problems between the first mahout and the former mahout Sri. Gopan. 4) Dr. Saseendradev has reported to the Devaswom Commissioner on 11.03.2018 that some of the mahouts of TDB are drunkards and are showing dereliction in care and maintenance of the elephants owned by TDB. TDB to conduct enquiry and take suitable action. 5) The elephants of TDB are continuously paraded for the festivals in the temples of TDB without rest and this has resulted in deterioration of the health of the elephants leading to death. Hence TDB to restrict the parading of the elephants to important festivals alone. 6) The Veterinary officers of the Forest Department may be entrusted to cross verify the fitness certificate for elephants as instances of issuing fitness certificates without examining the elephants were noticed. 7) Officers of the Social Forestry wing to inspect the registers of the elephants to ensure that the registers are properly updated. 8) Many of the mahouts of TDB are not having proper training or skill to maintain and care elephants and hence they may be given training by the Social Forestry wing.” 4. In Wildlife Crime (O.R.No.1 of 2021) registered on W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 7 17.01.2022 by the office of the Social Forestry Range Office, Alappuzha, in relation to the unnatural death of the elephant 'Ambalapuzha Vijayakrishnan', respondents 7 to 10 herein are arrayed as the accused. In the additional affidavit filed by the 3[rd] respondent it is stated that, the 10[th] respondent herein, who was the 1[st] mahout of the tusker 'Ambalapuzha Vijayakrishnan', has not been arrested, since he is absconding. 5. The 7[th] respondent Deputy Devaswom Commissioner has filed a counter affidavit dated 30.11.2021, wherein it is stated that, the local custodian of the elephant 'Ambalapuzha Vijayakrishnan, is the Sub Group Officer, Padanayarkulangara Devaswom. Respondents 10 and 11, who were the 1[st] and 2[nd] mahouts, without obtaining any permission, took the elephant to Thrippangott Devaswom. When it was informed to the office of the 7[th] respondent, he immediately directed the Sub Group Officers concerned to return the elephant to Ambalapuzha. From 04.04.2021 onwards, the elephant was not taking any food. Immediately, the 7[th] respondent informed the Veterinary Surgeon to examine the elephant. Accordingly, the doctors examined the elephant and treated it with medicines. However, W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 8 on 08.04.2021, the health condition of the elephant became worse and it died. 6. The party respondents, namely, respondents 9 and 11 have filed individual affidavits. 7. The learned Standing Counsel for Travancore Devaswom Board has filed a statement on behalf of respondents 1 and 5, opposing the reliefs sought for in this writ petition, wherein it is stated that, though the elephant 'Ambalapuzha Vijayakrishnan' had some injuries, which were not serious enough to cancel the programmes. Constant attention, care and treatment has been given to the elephant. However it died on 08.04.2021, at the age of 52 years. The Board has already conducted an enquiry by its Vigilance Wing, by an officer of the rank of Superintendent of Police. The Board has also initiated steps against the officials found to be involved in dereliction of duty as disclosed in the enquiry. In addition to that, the Forest Department is also investigating the cause of death of the elephant. 8. By the order dated 04.04.2022, this Court directed all concerned to ensure strict compliance of the provisions under the W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 9 Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012, while parading elephants in connection with temple festivals, functions, etc. It was ordered that, the provisions under Rule 10 of the said Rules shall be complied with in letter and spirit by all concerned and any person, who contravenes the provisions of the said Rules, shall be dealt with appropriately, as provided under Section 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act. By the said order, the learned Standing Counsel for Travancore Devaswom Board was directed to get instructions as to the criteria that has to be followed by allotting elephants for festivals in temples under the management of the Board, since parading of large number of elephants is the practice followed during annual festival in most of the major temples under the Devaswom. 9. On 08.04.2022, when this writ petition came up for consideration, the learned Standing Counsel for Travancore Devaswom Board has made available for the perusal of this Court the circular dated 22.10.1998 and proceedings dated 23.10.2000 regarding allotment of elephants for festivals in the temples under the management of the Travancore Devaswom Board. 10. The Circular No.ROC7199/98 dated 22.10.1998 issued W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 10 by the Secretary of the Travancore Devaswom Board regarding allotment of elephants for festivals in temples under the management of the Travancore Devaswom Board reads thus; "ഉ്ᩜവസീസണിൽ വിവിധ ദേവസവ്ങളിൽ പതിവിൻപടി അനുവാേമി്ᩤാതത ആനകതള ദ്പാ്രാമിന് നിദ ാരി്ᨪു്രതിന് അനുവേി്ᨪു്രത് സംബ്യി്ച് നിരവധി പരാതികൾ ദേവസവം വിവിധക്മ്റി്ᨪാരിൽ നി്രും ഉ്ᩂാകു്രതാ ി ക്മീഷ്ണർ സൂചന (2) ന്മരിൽ റിദപാർ്ᨾ് തചയ്തിരി്ᨪു്രു. ആക ാൽ ഉ്വ്ിൽ പതിവു്പകാരം അനുവാേമു് ആനകതള മാ്തദമഡിപാർ്ᨾ്തമന്റിൽനി്രും അനുവേി്ᨪുക ു ്ᩦുതവ്രും അതു കൂടാതത കൂടുതൽ ആനകതള ദ്പാ്രാമിന് ആവശ്യമു്ᩦപ്ᩌം ആ തിന്തറ പൂർ്ᩆചിലവ് ക്മ്റി്ᨪാർ തത്ര വഹിദ്ᨪ്ᩂതാതണ്രും പതിവു്പകാരം അനുവാേമു്ᩦ ദ്പാ്രാമുകൾ്ᨪ് ഡിപാർ്ᨾ്തമന്റ് ആനകതള നൽകു്രതിന് സാധി്ᨪാതത വരു്രപ്ᩌം ആ തിന് നിലവിലു്ᩦ നി മാനുസരണം ആനവാടക ചിലതവഴുതി നൽകു്ര രീതി തുടർ്ര് അവലംബി്ᨪാവു്രതാതണ്രും കൂടാതത സുചന (1) ഉ്ᩈരവു്പകാരം പുതി താ ി ആനകതള ദചർദ്ᨪ്ᩂതിത്ᩤ്രും ദബാർഡു്ᩈവാ ി്ᨾു്ᩦ വിവരം അറി ി്ᨪു്രു.” (underline supplied) ## 11. Clause (1) of the proceedings dated 23.10.2000 of the ## Travancore Devaswom Board reads thus; "തിരുവിതാംകൂർ ദേവസവം ദബാർഡിന്തറ കീഴിലു്ᩦ വിവിധ ദേവസവ്ങളിതല ഉ്ᩜവാേി അടി ്ᩌിര്ങൾ്ᨪ് ആനകതള ദ്പാ്രാം തച്യു്രത് സംബ്യി്ച് താതഴ വിവരി്ᨪും ്പകാരം ദബാർഡു്ᩈരവാ വിവരം അറി ി്ᨪു്രു. 1. പതിവിൽ അനുവാേമി്ാതത പുതുതാ ി അകംപടി ആനത അനുവേിദ്്തി്. എ്രാൽ പതിവിൽ നി്രും W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 11 വയതിചലി്ച് മുൻവർഷ്ങളിൽ ആനത ്പദതയകം ഉ്ᩈരവുവഴി അനുവേി്ചി്ᨾു്ᩦ പ്ᩌം തുടർ്രും അനുവേി്ᨪാവു്രതാകു്രു." (underline supplied) 12. By the order dated 08.04.2022, in addition to the directions contained in the order dated 04.04.2022, this Court directed all concerned to scrupulously follow the conditions in circular dated 22.10.1998 and the proceedings dated 23.10.2000, insofar as it relates to the number of elephants paraded in the festivals in the temples under the management of Travancore Devaswom Board. 13. On 24.05.2022, when this writ petition came up for consideration, considering the issues involved in this writ petition, this Court _suo motu_ impleaded the State of Kerala; Cochin Devaswom Board; Malabar Devaswom Board; Guruvayur Devaswom Managing Committee; and Koodalmanikyam Devaswom as additional respondents 12 to 16 in this writ petition. 14. Heard the learned counsel for the petitioner, the learned Standing Counsel for Travancore Devaswom Board for respondents 1 and 5, the learned Senior Government Pleader for respondents 2, 4, 6 and 12, the learned Special Government W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 12 Pleader (Forest) for the 3[rd] respondent, the learned counsel for respondents 7 to 11, the learned Standing Counsel for Cochin Devaswom Board for the additional 13[th] respondent, the learned Standing Counsel for Malabar Devaswom Board for the additional 14[th] respondent, the learned Standing Counsel for Guruvayur Devaswom Board for the additional 15[th] respondent and also the learned counsel for the additional 16[th] respondent. 15. The Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012 is one made by the State, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2) of Section 64 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and in supersession of the Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2003. Rule 4 of the said Rules deals with upkeep and veterinary care of the elephant. As per sub-rule (1) of Rule 4, for taking care of each elephant, the owner thereof shall engage a mahout having at least three years of experience in managing an elephant. As per sub-rule (17) of Rule 4, while issuing medical certificate, the Veterinary Doctor should verify the original documents such as ownership certificate of the elephant, (if received from forest department) microchip certificate, insurance certificate and W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 13 original elephant data book to ensure the correctness. The Veterinary Doctor shall issue the health certificate of the elephant in the prescribed format shown as Appendix I. As per sub-rule (18) of Rule 4, before any captive elephant is transported from one place to another, the Veterinary Doctor shall inspect the elephant and issue a Fitness Certificate in the form given in Appendix II. 16. Rule 10 of the said Rules deals with the constitution of District Committee. As per sub-rule (1) of Rule 10, a District Committee shall be constituted by the District Collector to deal with cases of cruelty meted out to captive elephants. The District Collector shall be the Chairman of that Committee and the Divisional Forest Officer shall be its Convener. The Committee shall consists of the members enumerated in clauses (3) to (9) of sub-rule (1) of Rule 10. As per sub-rule (2) of Rule 10, the District Committee shall meet before the festival season, preferably in the month of October and take necessary measures to ensure welfare of elephants and public safety. As per sub-rule (3) of Rule 10, the District Committee shall take steps to discourage the growing tendency of increasing the number of W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 14 elephants in existing traditional festivals and introducing elephants in new festivals. As per sub-rule (4) of Rule 10, the District Committee shall take necessary measures, to ensure that the Festival Committee constituted for the smooth conduct of festivals or the persons organizing such functions in which elephants are exposed, shall adhere to the matters enumerated in clauses (i) to (xviii). As per clause (i) of sub-rule (4), there shall be sufficient space between elephants used in processions and parades. As per clause (ii) of sub-rule (4), no elephant in musth shall be used in connection with festivals. As per clause (iii) of sub-rule (4), elephant which is sick, injured, weak or pregnant shall not be used. 17. In **Sree Kumar v. Travancore Devaswom Board** **[2005 (1) KLT 43]** , in the context of the Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2003, a Division Bench of this Court held that the Travancore Devaswom Board is the custodian of the animals which are entrusted by the devotees with the fervent hope and expectation that they will be looked after well. These animals are in a way offerings to the deities. Therefore, it is the paramount duty and responsibility of W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 15 the Board to take proper care of these animals at all costs. If the animals are not looked after well, necessarily it will amount to cruelty to them. This, in turn, will attract the provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. 18. Section 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, deals with penalties. As per sub-section (1) of Section 51, any person who contravenes any provision of this Act (except Chapter VA and section 38J) or any rule or order made thereunder or who commits a breach of any of the conditions of any licence or permit granted under this Act, shall be guilty of an offence against this Act, and shall, on conviction, be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or with fine which may extend to twenty-five thousand rupees or with both. 19. As per the first proviso to sub-section (1) of Section 51 of the Act, where the offence committed is in relation to any animal specified in Schedule I or Part II of Schedule II or meat of any such animal or animal article, trophy or uncured trophy derived from such animal or where the offence relates to hunting in a sanctuary or a National Park or altering the boundaries of a sanctuary or a National Park, such offence shall be punishable W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 16 with imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than three years but may extend to seven years and also with fine which shall not be less than ten thousand rupees. As per the second proviso to sub-section (1) of Section 51, in the case of a second or subsequent offence of the nature mentioned in this subsection, the term of imprisonment shall not be less than three years but may extend to seven years and also with fine which shall not be less than twenty-five thousand rupees. 20. The Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012 is one made by the State in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2) of Section 64 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. In view of the statutory provisions referred to hereinbefore and also the law laid down by this Court in **Sree Kumar [2005 (1) KLT 43]** we deem it appropriate to make the interim orders dated 04.04.2022 and 08.04.2022 absolute, by directing all concerned to ensure strict compliance of the provisions under the Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012, while parading elephants in connection with temple festivals, functions, etc. The provisions under Rule 10 of the said Rules shall be complied with W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 17 in letter and spirit by all concerned and any person, who contravenes the provisions of the said Rules, shall be dealt with appropriately, as provided under Section 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act. In temples under the management of the Travancore Devaswom Board, all concerned shall scrupulously follow the conditions in Circular No.ROC7199/98 dated 22.10.1998 and proceedings dated 23.10.2000, which are referred to hereinbefore at paragraph 10 and 11, insofar as it relates to the number of elephants paraded in the festivals in the temples under the said Devaswom Board. In temples under Cochin Devaswom Board, Malabar Devaswom Board, Guruvayur Devaswom and also Koodalmanikyam Devaswom, the directions contained in the order dated 04.04.2022, which is made absolute by this judgment, shall be complied with letter and spirit and any person, who contravenes the provisions of the Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012, while parading elephants in connection with festivals, functions, etc., shall be dealt with appropriately, as provided under Section 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act. 21. In connection with the death of the elephant by name W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 18 ‘Ambalapuzha Vijayakrishnan’, owned by the 1[st] respondent Travancore Devaswom Board, which died on 08.04.2021, wildlife crime (O.R.No.1 of 2021) has been registered by the office of the Social Forestry Range Office, Alappuzha, in which respondents 7 to 10 herein are arrayed as accused. The 1[st] respondent Travancore Devaswom Board has already conducted an inquiry by its Vigilance Wing, and steps have already been initiated against the officials found to be involved in dereliction of duty as disclosed in that inquiry. It is for the authorities concerned to take necessary steps to ensure that the proceedings initiated in connection with the death of the elephant by name ‘Ambalapuzha Vijayakrishnan’ reaches a logical conclusion, within a period of five months from the date of this judgment. With the above directions, this writ petition is disposed of. Sd/- ## **ANIL K. NARENDRAN JUDGE** Sd/- ## **P.G. AJITHKUMAR JUDGE** yd W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 19 ## **`APPENDIX`** ## **`PETITIONER EXHIBITS`** ``` Exhibit P1COPY OF THE PAPER REPORT (MALAYALA MAN- ORAMA DAILY) ``` ``` Exhibit P2COPY OF THE PAPEER REPORT (DEEPIKA DAILY) ``` ``` Exhibit P3COPY OF THE PHOTOGRAPHS ``` ``` Exhibit P4COPY OF THE PHOTOGRAPHS ``` ``` Exhibit P5COPY OF THE STATEMENT GIVEN BY THE PE- TITIONER BEFORE THE FOREST DEPARTMENT ``` ## **`3[RD] RESPONDENT EXHIBITS`** ``` Exhibit R3(a)TRUE COPY OF THE PRELIMINARY POST MOR- TEM REPORT DATED 12/04/2021. ``` ``` Exhibit R3(b)TRUE COPY OF THE PROCEEDINGS ORDER NUM- BER KFDFHQ/1427/2021/WL-13 DATED 09/04/2021. ``` ``` Exhibit R3(c)TRUE COPY OF THE REPORT VIDE LETTER NO.K4-1219/21 DATED 02/07/2021. ``` - **`Exhibit R3(d) TRUE COPY OF THE REPORT OF THE CHIEF FOREST VETERINARY OFFICER VIDE LETTER N.CFVO:05/21 DATED 10/06/2021.`** ## **`7[TH] RESPONDENT EXHIBITS`** ``` Exhibit R7(a) SE-THE TRUE COPIES OF HEALTH CERTIFICATES RIES)DATED 13/01/2021, 21/01/2021, 10/02/2021, 22/02/2021, 09/03/2021, 10/03/2021 AND 24/03/2021. ``` W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 20 ``` Exhibit R7(b) ``` ``` THE LETTER DATED 29/03/2021 SENT BY THE DEVASWOM BOARD VATERINARY SURGEON DR.SASEENDRA DEV. ``` ``` Exhibit R7(c) ``` ``` THE TRUE COPY OF THE LETTER SENT BY THIS RESPONDENT ON 31/03/2021 TO THE DEVASWOM COMMISSIONER, TRAVANCORE DEVASWOM BOARD. ``` ``` 9[th] RESPONDENT EXHIBITS ``` ``` Exhibit R9(a) ``` ``` A TRUE COPY OF THE ORDER DATED 28.01.2021 ISSUED BY THE DEPUTY DEVASWOM COMMISSIONER, HARIPPAD WITH READABLE COPY. ``` ``` Exhibit R9(b)A TRUE COPY OF THE ORDER DATED 09.02.2021 ISSUED BY THE DEPUTY DEVAS- WOM COMMISSIONER, HARIPAD. ``` ``` Exhibit R9(c)A TRUE COPY OF THE ORDER DATED 19.02.2021 ISSUED BY THE DEPUTY DEVAS- WOM COMMISSIONER, HARIPAD. ``` - **`1[ST] RESPONDENT ANNEXURES`** - **`ANNEXURE R1(A) TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 13.01.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY.`** - **`ANNEXURE R1(B) TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 19.01.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY.`** - **`ANNEXURE R1(C) TRUE COPY OF THE HEALTH REPORT DATED 21.01.2021 OF THE ELEPHANT ISSUED BY THE ASSISTANT FOREST VETERINARY OFFICER.`** ``` ANNEXURE R1(D) ``` - **`TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 21.01.2021 IN RESPECT OF`** W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 21 ``` AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY. ``` - **`ANNEXURE R1(E)`** ``` TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED FROM 21.03.2021 TO 29.03.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY. ``` - **`ANNEXURE R1(F) TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 30.03.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY DR.BINU GOPINATH TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY.`** - **`ANNEXURE R1(G) TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 31.03.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY DR.BINU GOPINATH, TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY.`** - **`ANNEXURE R1(H) TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 01.04.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY.`** - **`ANNEXURE R1(I) TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 02.04.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY DR.BINU GOPINATH TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY.`** - **`ANNEXURE R1(J) TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 04.04.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY.`** - **`ANNEXURE R1(K)`** - **`TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 07.04.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY`** W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 22 ## **`THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY.`** ## **`8[TH] RESPONDENT EXHIBITS`** - **`EXHIBIT R8(A)`** ``` TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 13.01.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY. ``` - **`EXHIBIT R8(B) TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 19.01.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY.`** - **`EXHIBIT R8(C) TRUE COPY OF THE HEALTH REPORT DATED 21.01.2021 OF THE ELEPHANT ISSUED BY THE ASSISTANT FOREST VETERINARY OFFICER.`** - **`EXHIBIT R8(D) TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 21.01.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY.`** - **`EXHIBIT R8(E) TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED FROM 21.03.2021 TO 29.03.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY.`** - **`EXHIBIT R8(F) TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 30.03.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY DR.BINU GOPINATH TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY.`** - **`EXHIBIT R8(G) TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 31.03.2021 IN RESPECT OF`** W.P.(C)No.12852 of 2021 23 ``` AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY DR.BINU GOPINATH, TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY. ``` ``` EXHIBIT R8(H) ``` ``` EXHIBIT R8(I) ``` ``` EXHIBIT R8(J) ``` ``` EXHIBIT R8(K) ``` ``` EXHIBIT R8(L) ``` ``` TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 01.04.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY. ``` ``` TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 02.04.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY DR.BINU GOPINATH TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY. ``` ``` TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 04.04.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY. ``` ``` TRUE COPY OF THE DISEASE AND TREATMENT RECORD DATED 07.04.2021 IN RESPECT OF AMBALAPUZHA VIJAYAKRISHNAN PREPARED BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT TOGETHER WITH ITS LEGIBLE COPY. ``` ``` TRUE COPY OF COMMUNICATION DATED 11.03.2018 SENT BY THE 8[TH] RESPONDENT BEFORE THE 5[TH] RESPONDENT. ```