Elephants in India have long been symbolic of power, grace, and wisdom. Yet behind their revered status lies a harsh reality: countless elephants are subjected to abuse, neglect, and captivity under the guise of tradition and tourism. For many, the trauma begins in early childhood and spans decades of servitude, suffering, and silence.
In an exclusive conversation with PgGinger, Shresatha Pachori, Senior Press and Communications Officer at Wildlife SOS, sheds light on the hidden world of elephant exploitation in India and the long road to recovery for these gentle giants.
Stolen from the Wild
“Most of the elephants that are rescued by Wildlife SOS have been taken from the wild at a very young age,” Shresatha explains. “They go through brutal training to make them submissive. It’s called ‘breaking the spirit’.”
This training process includes beatings, starvation, chaining, and sleep deprivation, all designed to break the elephant’s will and enforce control. Many of these elephants are then sold into the illegal wildlife trade or forced into exploitative roles in temples, tourism, and street performances.
“They are walking on hot tarmac roads, with wounds on their bodies,” he shares. “They are not fed proper diets, and many are partially or completely blind due to malnourishment or beatings.”
Long-Term Healing
Wildlife SOS runs the Elephant Conservation and Care Centre in Mathura, where rescued elephants receive specialised and compassionate care. “We provide medical treatment, foot care, hydrotherapy, enrichment, and social interaction with other elephants,” he says.
The rehabilitation process is multifaceted. Many elephants suffer from chronic ailments—severe foot rot, arthritis, abscesses, and musculoskeletal issues. Some have psychological trauma, showing signs of post-traumatic stress, nervous pacing, or social withdrawal.
“They are on long-term pain management and treatment. It’s a lifelong commitment. Rehabilitation is slow, but it’s also deeply rewarding,” Shresatha says. “Seeing an elephant lie down and sleep peacefully for the first time in years is an emotional moment for our team.”
Community Challenges
“There is a lot of resistance when it comes to rescuing elephants,” he admits. “Sometimes owners forge documents, and it becomes a legal battle. In many cases, elephants are owned illegally but presented with false permits.”
Wildlife SOS works closely with forest departments, legal experts, and veterinarians to secure rescue orders through proper channels. But resistance doesn’t only come from bureaucracy—it also comes from the social and economic entrenchment of elephant exploitation.
“People think that traditions justify keeping elephants, but we try to create awareness that cruelty is not culture,” he says. Education and community involvement are key parts of Wildlife SOS’s mission. They have also created programs to help elephant owners transition into more sustainable livelihoods.
The Road Ahead
“We envision a future where elephants are not used for any form of manual labour or religious ceremonies. They should be in the wild or in sanctuaries, where their needs come first,” Shresatha asserts.
He also stresses the importance of systemic reform. Stricter enforcement of wildlife protection laws, closing legal loopholes, banning private ownership, and establishing more ethical tourism models are vital steps forward.
When asked how people can help, he is clear: “Refuse to ride elephants. Don’t support circuses or temples using elephants. Donate to rescue organisations. And most importantly, spread the message.”
If anyone sees a captive elephant being abused, they should immediately report the case to the local Range Forest Officer (RFO) or Divisional Forest Officer of the district. Wildlife SOS also has a dedicated helpline at +91 9971699727 to report elephant abuse and cruelty.
Importantly, private ownership of elephants is no longer permitted under Indian law. “According to the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, no wild animal can be domesticated or used for entertainment. Elephants currently held in captivity were bought years ago, but any new purchase or sale is strictly illegal,” he clarifies.
When it comes to elephants in zoos, Shresatha explains that many of these animals were also taken from the wild. However, their care is governed by the Central Zoo Authority, which oversees the welfare and upkeep of all animals kept in zoological settings.
On a more biological note, Shresatha adds, “An adult elephant consumes between 160–250 kg of food daily. This varies based on their health and weight. Their care is as complex as it is costly.”
Finally, he dismisses any speculation of government collusion in poaching: “Poachers act illegally, entering forests to kill animals for parts like ivory. Authorities are there to stop them, not to protect them. If anything, the government machinery helps track down and punish offenders.”
A Call to Compassion
The elephants rescued by Wildlife SOS are more than victims of abuse—they are survivors. Each one has a name, a story, and a will to live. Some form deep friendships with other rescued elephants; others learn to splash again in water or feel grass underfoot for the first time.
India’s elephants deserve more than symbolic reverence. They deserve safety, freedom, and dignity. Thanks to organisations like Wildlife SOS, that life is now possible for many—and with growing awareness and collective will, perhaps one day, for all.
To support or learn more, visit www.wildlifesos.org
