Madras High Court Directs TN Govt to Frame SOP for Elephants in Religious Ceremonies

Times of India · india

The Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to create a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the use of elephants in religious ceremonies and temple festivals. The court emphasized that the integration of captive animals into such events cannot operate without legal guidelines. It stressed that ancient traditions must align with constitutional values and animal welfare. A joint working group will be formed to draft protocols covering health, transportation, and handler standards. Until the SOP is finalized, strict adherence to existing wildlife protection laws is mandated.