TUSKER TORTURED TO DEATH IN INDIA
A news report in the national daily THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS dated 26 February, 2004.

Pathanamthitta ( Kerala state in India)
A 45 year old tusker by name Manikantan owned by a timber depot proprietor at PANAGAD near KULANADA in PANDALAM was allegedly tortured to death by the Mahouts ( Elephant Keepers) on Monday afternoon(22 February 2004). The incident occured when the elephant was taken for a bath in the Achencovil river near KULANDA.

According to eye witnesses the tusker was severely beaten by the three heavily drunk Mahouts ( Elephant keepers) for hesitating to go to the river and even after reaching the bathing ghat (bathing place) the animal was tortured. Local people saw several cut wounds on the body of the pachyderm( elephant).(express news service report).

We appeal to all animal lovers of the world to PROTEST this brutal treatment and torture of a captive animal in their charge by the elephant keepers. Please DEMAND and URGE the Principal Chief Conservator of Forest, Government of Kerala, Forest Head Quarters, VAZHUTHACAUD 695 014 KERALA STATE INDIA to arrest the culprits and prosecute them for CRUELTY AGAINST ANIMAL and WILD LIFE PROTECTION ACT and also under the criminal laws of India. The owner of the elephant is also legally liable for his vicarial liability under the law . He is guilty of criminal negligence and for illtreatment of the animal and other violations.

Please also write protest and appeal letters to

The Chief Minister,
Government of Kerala,
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM,]
KERALA

Please remember that in India written mails (hard copies) are more likely to be effective and the Government does take note of public opinion , especially international public opinion.

Unless strict deterrent action is not taken this time, similar incidents will continue to occur causing pain and torture to the helpless elephants who are already being exploited under private ownership in Kerala state where they are used as draught animals in timber industry.

Please sign this petition. For any more details you may feel free to email me at nsubramanya@care2.com

ANIMAL APPEALS INTERNATIONAL