Elephant Arjuna died during an operation at wild elephant capturing

Regrettably, Elephant Arjuna met a tragic end during an operation aimed at capturing a wild elephant near Yeslur in Sakleshpura taluk. Arjuna sustained severe injuries around the tusk, stomach, and ribs, leading to his sudden demise. The untamed tusker launched an attack on Arjuna while authorities were attempting to tranquilize it. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and risks involved in managing encounters with wild animals.

The recent passing of Dasara elephant Arjuna has elicited widespread mourning among animal enthusiasts across Karnataka. Arjuna, a majestic tusker estimated to be around 64 years old, met his end during an operation aimed at translocating and radio-collaring rogue elephants, notorious for wreaking havoc in villages and even claiming the lives of farmers.

Arjuna’s demise is clouded in controversy, with allegations of protocol violations during the operation and assertions that a bullet injury caused his death. This incident brings attention to the pervasive issue of human-wildlife conflict in the region.

Elephant Arjuna’s History

Captured in 1968 during Khedda operations in Karnataka’s Western Ghats, Arjuna played a vital role in the Dasara festival processions in Mysuru, carrying the revered golden howdah of goddess Chamundeshwari on multiple occasions. As a participant in various operations alongside the Karnataka forest department’s “kumkis” (elephants in their service), Arjuna contributed to capturing tigers and elephants.

Tragically, the recent operation to capture a wild elephant in Sakaleshpura taluk led to Arjuna’s demise. Allegations circulated that forest officials accidentally shot Arjuna, sparking outrage. However, authorities refute these claims, emphasizing that Arjuna succumbed to injuries sustained while combating the wild elephant.

The incident prompted calls for a thorough investigation, with many organizations and individuals urging the state government to take action against those responsible. Despite differing accounts, the Chief Conservator of Forests in Hassan dismissed claims of accidental shooting, stating that no bullet marks were found during the postmortem.