Suspension of Delhi Zoo's WAZA Membership
The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) has suspended the membership of Delhi's National Zoological Park due to animal welfare concerns. This decision will be effective from October 8, 2024, with a possibility of cancellation if corrective measures are not taken by April 7, 2025.
Issues Highlighted by WAZA
- Neglect of Shankar the Elephant:
- Shankar, a 29-year-old African male elephant, was a diplomatic gift from Zimbabwe in 1998.
- He was neglected and displayed maladaptive behaviors, having lost his female companion in 2005.
- WAZA's visit in March 2024 noted Shankar's poor physical and mental state due to social isolation.
- Conditions for Suspension Lift:
- Relocate Shankar or address his health concerns by April 7, 2025.
Global Standards and Violations
- Comparison with International Standards:
- British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) guidelines emphasize appropriate husbandry practices and social groupings.
- The UK’s DEFRA highlights the complexity of meeting elephants' needs in captivity due to their intelligence and social structures.
- Violations in Delhi Zoo:
- Shankar's prolonged isolation contradicts global standards requiring social groups.
- Asian elephants at the zoo also show signs of mental distress, such as incessant 'head-bobbing'.
Role of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA)
- Statutory Duties:
- The CZA, under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, is responsible for ensuring minimum standards of animal care.
- Failure to Enforce Guidelines:
- CZA has not enforced its own guidelines titled 'Elephants’ Upkeep in Zoos'.
Potential Consequences
- CZA's WAZA Membership at Risk:
- The cancellation of CZA’s membership may affect animal welfare and conservation efforts in India.
- Need for Legal Reforms:
- Introduction of checks and balances for CZA and errant zoos to ensure adherence to animal care standards.
The article underlines the urgent need for Delhi Zoo and the Central Zoo Authority to address the concerns raised by WAZA to prevent further degradation of animal welfare standards in India.
