Kozhikode owner and mahout charged over malnourished elephant

Forest officials and veterinary doctors have filed a case against Cheriyaparambath Gopalan and his mahout for neglecting an elephant at their residence in Ekarool near Unnikulam, Kozhikode district.

Inspection Findings

A team inspected the property and found the animal was not being fed the diet recorded in its care register. Blood samples sent to Pookode Veterinary College showed severe malnutrition and weakness. The officials also noted chain‑induced sores on the elephant’s legs. They said the elephant had been used for timber‑hauling work despite its poor health.

Owner's Claim

Gopalan asserted the elephant was receiving treatment from a doctor in Thrissur because of its weakness. He added that the animal’s last public appearance was in the recent Thrissur Pooram procession and that it had not been employed for timber hauling or other strenuous tasks in recent months. The elephant has now been placed under the care of social‑forestry officials and veterinary doctors for feeding and treatment.

Context

Elephants used in Kerala’s temple festivals and timber work are regulated by the state forest department, which mandates proper diet and care. Failure to meet these standards can lead to legal action and transfer of the animal to official care.