Lok Sabha has cleared the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Bill, 2021 that implements the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Shreevallabhan shifts his weight from one foot to the other, his gigantic head bobs from side-to-side, swaying in the heat of the Thiruvananthapuram summer. To the untrained eye, the 22-year-old elephant's behaviour suggests happiness. Vallabhan’s mahout of 10 years, Biju, affectionately says the elephant is ‘dancing’ in tune to music.
The exception allowing private ownership of elephants has led to widespread abuse and harm. Now, legalising their trade will mark a dangerous regression.