Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 5 : Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday chaired a meeting regarding the issue of the Mahadevi elephant from Nandani Math, Taluka Shirol, District Kolhapur, in Mumbai.
Fadnavis shared on X, "State Government Stands Firm With Devotees! For 34 years, Madhuri, also known as Mahadevi has been a part of Nandani Math's tradition and the lives of the people. Her presence holds emotional and spiritual meaning and the strong public sentiment for her return has been deeply understood."
He said that taking this into account, the State Government will file a review petition before the Supreme Court. Nandani Math is also encouraged to include the State Government as a party in its own petition. Alongside this, the Forest Department will submit a separate and detailed stand before the Court.
Maharashtra CM further said that a team will be formed including veterinary doctors to ensure Madhuri's proper care. His post read, "All necessary facilities will be created, including the option of arrangements like rescue centre if required. The Court will also be requested to appoint an independent committee to review the arrangements. The cases filed against citizens in this matter will be withdrawn."
"This issue is not just legal, it is about faith, tradition and the deep connection people feel. The State Government stands firmly with the devotees and with Nandani Math," the post further read.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister (DCM) Ajitdada Pawar, Ministers Chandrakantdada Patil, Ganesh Naik, and Prakash Abitkar. Representatives of Nandani Math and other dignitaries were also present in the meeting.
Earlier on Sunday, Elephant Madhuri, also known as Mahadevi, was moved from the Mutt in Kolhapur to Vantara's sanctuary in Jamnagar following a Supreme Court order upholding the decision of the Ministry of Environment's High Powered Committee.