The Kerala High Court has taken strong exception to a breach of elephant parade norms at the annual festival at the Poornathrayeesa Temple in Thrippunithura. The court censured a Devaswom officer, holding him negligent over matters of animal welfare and public safety. The incident reveals the increasing scrutiny of temple festivals in Kerala, in which elephants play a central role.The controversy surfaced following allegations that the temple authorities did not abide by the guidelines followed while taking out elephants for processions, which is regulated by the Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012. The norms were formulated to ensure that the welfare of the elephants, an integral part of the cultural heritage of Kerala, is not violated while organizing festivals in the interest of public safety. Violations Observed The court was informed that elephants were marched for hours without proper rest, water, or food that was against the norms of welfare. It was also told that mahouts used pointed tools to tame elephants which was unethical. The High Court observed that such activities caused not only mental agony but even the possibility of accidents during peak festive temple processions. It has been emphasized by the petitioners that repeated infringement during festivals in various temples indicate a sense of no accountability amongst the officers of Devaswom. Temple management not showing priority consideration to animal welfare was construed as a constitutional mandate breach under Article 51A(g), ordaining compassion towards animals. Judgment of the Court Justice Anil K. Narendran, who was presiding over the case, said he was disappointed by the lax attitude of the in-charge Devaswom officer. The court said that cultural traditions cannot be used as an excuse for compromising animal welfare or public safety. It directed the Devaswom Board to ensure that the rules are strictly adhered to and instructed district collector and forest department officers to monitor the use of elephants in temple festivals. It further warned that again and again such negligence can be punished and the festival would even invite even suspension of permission to carry out the festivals. Immediate Action Undertaken The high court asked the Devaswom Board to strictly follow all procedures of rearing the elephants for their parades by keeping good records and rest, food and water facilities to the respective elephants. Avoid the use of sharp tools; Trained mahouts should only be used. Compliance report should be submitted in two weeks.