GOALPARA, Dec 6 � In a tragic incident, an elephant has been found fighting for its life since the last 24 hours with both its tusks and tail missing and a partially severed trunk at the foot of the Pancharatna Reserve Forest. According to information available, the incident came to light around 5 pm on Wednesday when some local people living near the foot of Pancharatna Hills found the injured elephant writhing in pain and lying in a pool of mud.
However, there is much confusion as conflicting reports came in the morning from official as well as unofficial sources. Though some believe it to be the handiwork of poachers who sawed off the tusks and cut off the tail and trunk of the injured animal, the veterinary doctor, who is treating the animal on the spot, claimed that the elephant, which is around 25 years, also has injuries in and around the tusk and left leg and, that infighting within the herd, which is quite common among male elephants, might be the cause. He also suggested that the animal be rescued and shifted to highland so that the injuries could be treated properly. Otherwise, the chances of survival of the elephant will be remote as it is bound to suffer from dehydration if it continues to lie in the mud pool.
The injured elephant was administered two injections containing antibiotics, painkillers and vitamins. Muklesh Ali, DFO, said that the incident happened in a remote area and a case has been registered with the police. He completely ruled out the hand of poachers in the incident after visiting the spot. He also said that a team was on its way from the Assam State Zoo, Guwahati to rescue the animal.
