Udalguri-Sonitpur, Sept 1: An elephant named Mangal Singh, whose tusks were allegedly cut off by miscreants in Tinsukia district in April, received advanced medical treatment on August 26 following intervention by animal rights activist Priyamjyoti Phukan and the Assam government.
The domesticated tusker was reportedly tied up in the Lakshipathar forest area of Dhulijan in Digboi when both tusks were allegedly removed. Phukan highlighted the elephant’s deteriorating condition and submitted memoranda to the Chief Minister, Forest Minister and senior Forest Department officials seeking urgent medical intervention.
In a memorandum submitted on August 6, Phukan sought treatment by a specialist, an inquiry into alleged negligence by local Forest Department officials and action against those responsible for the incident. The issue also gained attention on social media, with animal rights and environmental activists calling for better treatment for the elephant.
Following the intervention, the Chief Minister’s Office directed senior Forest Department officials to ensure proper treatment. The department subsequently approved funds and administrative permissions for advanced medical care and established communication with the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI).
On August 26, WTI specialists Dr Bhaskar Choudhury and orthodontic specialist Dr Abhishek Oza travelled from Guwahati to Digboi and carried out the required surgical procedure on Mangal Singh. Officials of the Digboi Forest Division also arranged round-the-clock monitoring of the elephant in coordination with its owner.
Phukan later thanked Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the Forest Department for their intervention and for ensuring that Mangal Singh received the required medical treatment.
