OIPA ETS, through its official representative in India, Advocate Manish Saxena, Director of the organization Wing of Research in Local Development (WORLD)—an OIPA Member League active in animal welfare and animal rights for over 26 years, has formally presented a case calling for “Justice for Chanchal,” an elderly elephant who was painted pink and used for a photoshoot in Jaipur, Rajasthan, raising serious concerns over animal cruelty and exploitation.
Acting on behalf of OIPA, Advocate Saxena initiated legal action and submitted a formal complaint to the competent authorities, requesting a full investigation and legal proceedings under India’s animal protection laws.
The case gained international attention after images of the photoshoot went viral online, sparking widespread outrage. Chanchal, estimated to be around 65 years old, was entirely painted pink and used as a prop in a staged photographic session conducted by photographer Julia Buruleva. The incident triggered strong criticism from the public and animal welfare organizations, highlighting concerns over the use of animals for commercial and artistic purposes.
According to the findings reported, the elephant was deliberately used as a prop during the photoshoot, causing unnecessary suffering. Chanchal was protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972, and the incident may constitute a violation of both this legislation and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960, which prohibits acts causing unnecessary pain or suffering to animals.
Following his intervention, Advocate Saxena coordinated with the State Animal Welfare Board of Rajasthan, which led to the issuance of official directives from the Director of the Department of Animal Husbandry and the Member Secretary of the State Animal Welfare Board, Government of Rajasthan, to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Department. These directives call for a detailed investigation, the initiation of legal proceedings against the violators, and the strict enforcement of laws related to elephant welfare to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Approximately five months after the photoshoot, Chanchal died. While no confirmed link has been established between the incident and her death, the case has intensified concerns regarding the treatment of captive elephants used in tourism and entertainment.
This legal action represents a concrete step toward accountability and the prevention of animal cruelty.
OIPA strongly condemns this act of cruelty, emphasizing that such inhumane treatment cannot be tolerated in a civilized society.
This case stands as a reminder that animals are not objects for entertainment or exploitation—they are living beings deserving of utmost respect, compassion, and full protection under the law.
OIPA reiterates its firm position against the exploitation of animals for entertainment, tourism, or commercial purposes and will continue to monitor the case and advocate for full accountability.
