Karnataka: Elephant Arjuna who participated in Dussehra killed in fight with wild elephant

During an operation to capture wild elephants, Arjuna, the elephant that was used as a base on which the Chinnada Ambari (Golden Howdah) was installed on eight occasions was killed. The final rites of the elephant are to take place today in which the state government would also be paying tribute. 

The final rites would take place at a plantation near Yasaluru in the Sakleshpura Taluk at around 11 A.M in the morning. A priest of the Mysuru Palace would preside over the ceremony. Members of the royal family would also be present on this occasion. 

Forest officials in Yasalaru had begun their operations against wild elephants by taking 4 domesticated elephants with them. While attempting to administer an injection to one of the wild elephants, Arjuna was attacked. This was the cause for Arjuna’s death. It is being stated that among the 4 domesticated elephants, three had fled the spot upon spotting the wild elephants whereas Arjuna decided by brave all odds and took them on. 

Several doubts have emerged from this narrative and there is a mounting pressure to carry out an unbiased investigation into the matter. The role of the forest officials is being suspected in this regard.