The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) has suspended the membership of the Delhi Zoo for six months due to concerns regarding the treatment of Shankar, a 29-year-old African elephant residing at the facility. This suspension restricts the zoo from accessing essential WAZA benefits, including participation in annual conferences and eligibility for travel grants.
Reason Behind the Suspension
The primary issue leading to WAZA’s decision is Shankar’s living conditions. Reports indicate that the elephant has been kept in solitary confinement and, at one point, was restrained with chains. Such conditions violate WAZA’s ethical guidelines, which stress the importance of treating animals with respect and dignity, particularly social animals like elephants that require proper care and interaction. WAZA has cautioned that if the Delhi Zoo fails to address these concerns within the next six months, the suspension could be extended indefinitely.
Requirements for Membership Restoration
To regain its membership, the Delhi Zoo must submit a detailed six-month action plan by April 7, 2025. This plan should outline either the relocation of Shankar to a more appropriate facility or significant improvements to his current living conditions. If relocation is pursued, the zoo must provide specific details about the move and ensure a smooth transition for the elephant.
Background on Shankar
Shankar was gifted to India in 1998 by the Zimbabwean government under President Robert Mugabe, in honor of former Indian President Shankar Dayal Sharma, after whom the elephant was named. Initially, Shankar had two Indian elephants as companions, but interactions were drastically reduced due to safety concerns and a decision by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) in 2014. In 2021, during his musth period, Shankar attacked one of the Indian elephants, which further limited his socialization and led to his isolation.
Zoo’s Response
In response to WAZA’s suspension, Delhi Zoo director Sanjeet Kumar stated that Shankar is no longer chained and now roams freely within his enclosure. However, WAZA remains steadfast in its demand for concrete changes to ensure Shankar’s well-being.
WAZA’s Broader Concerns
In addition to the suspension of Delhi Zoo, WAZA issued a letter to the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) on October 7, reminding them of their obligation to meet the 2023 Animal Welfare Goal (AWG) standards by November 30. Noncompliance could result in the CZA and all nine Indian zoos, including notable institutions like Bannerghatta Biological Park in Bengaluru and Indira Gandhi Zoological Park in Visakhapatnam, losing their WAZA memberships. The CZA is currently working to align its animal welfare evaluation programs with WAZA-approved standards.
Conclusion
The suspension of Delhi Zoo’s membership serves as a significant reminder of the ongoing responsibilities zoos have towards their animals. As the facility works to address WAZA’s concerns, the welfare of Shankar remains a pressing issue that highlights the need for improved animal care practices across the board.
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