The Maharashtra government has expressed its support for the return of Mahadevi, a beloved elephant from Kolhapur, signalling its intent to intervene legally in an ongoing Supreme Court matter concerning her relocation.
The development came following a meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at Mantralaya on Monday. The meeting was attended by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, state ministers Chandrakant Patil, Ganesh Naik, Hasan Mushrif, Girish Mahajan, and Prakash Abitkar, along with Kolhapur MLAs and leaders of the Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana.
Sources familiar with the meeting confirmed that the state clarified its earlier role in Mahadevi’s transfer to the Vanatara Rescue Centre, stating it was carried out in compliance with a Supreme Court directive and was not a state-initiated move.
However, recognising the "emotional and cultural bond" between the people of Kolhapur and the 36-year-old elephant, who had resided at Nandani Math for over three decades, the government has decided to seek legal recourse.
Both the state government and Nandani Math are now preparing to file review petitions in the Supreme Court, requesting reconsideration of the order. According to sources, the state will formally request to become a party in the ongoing litigation.
The state has also committed to taking full responsibility for Mahadevi’s health and welfare, should she be allowed to return. Plans include the formation of a dedicated veterinary team and the development of Vanatara-like care facilities within Maharashtra to meet legal and welfare standards.
Public agitation in Kolhapur has grown steadily since Mahadevi’s transfer, with residents launching protests and boycotting the services of a major telecom and fuel provider linked to Mahadevi’s current caretakers. The issue has since evolved into a high-profile movement, drawing widespread political attention.
Speaking after the meeting, MLA Rahul Awade said, “The Chief Minister has assured us that the state government stands with the people. We are hopeful that Mahadevi will return to Nandani Math soon.”
He also confirmed that the state had discussed the possibility of withdrawing police cases filed against protestors involved in the campaign.
Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana leader Raju Shetti added, “The government has agreed to support the legal battle. A review petition will be filed in the Supreme Court, and we’re confident the people’s voice will be heard.”
Representatives from Nandani Math stated they would consult their legal team before releasing an official statement but confirmed their intent to move forward with the case.
The elephant, who had become an emotional icon in the region, was shifted from Kolhapur following concerns over her living conditions. However, her removal sparked widespread backlash from locals, who claim she had been well cared for and was an integral part of the Math’s spiritual and cultural fabric.
