Rani's Triumph: A Camel's Journey from Circus Captivity to Freedom

This is the incredible and heartwarming story of Rani, a beautiful camel rescued from the clutches of Nataraj Circus. Rani's journey from bondage, labor, and the looming threat of slaughter to a life of freedom and care serves as a shining example of compassion, resilience, and the relentless efforts of animal welfare organizations.

Discovery of Rani:

In July 2014, CAPE Foundation was part of an animal circus inspection team organized by the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). Nataraj Circus, located in Rampurhat, District Birbhum, caught their attention due to the poor conditions of the animals, including Rani and four other camels. These camels, originally native to Rajasthan, were struggling in West Bengal's humid and saline climate, leading to health issues and suffering.

Efforts to Address Circus Cruelty:

Based on the inspection reports, Nataraj Circus was "show caused" by the AWBI in June 2016. This action eventually led to the suspension and cancellation of Nataraj Circus's license by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA). The circus was no longer allowed to perform with Rani or any other animals.

Rani's Mysterious Discovery:

On December 16, 2017, Subrata, an animal enthusiast, made a remarkable discovery in the Dankuni area. While stopping to repair a flat tire on a matador van, he noticed a peculiar, long-necked creature in the vehicle's dimly lit confines. As he approached, the men tending to the vehicle tried to prevent him from getting closer, but Subrata recognized the animal as a camel, and she was Rani. However, Rani was not traveling with the circus nor was she en route to join them.

Legal Intervention:

Subrata filed a complaint with the Belgharia Police Station under Section 11(d) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, against the driver transporting Rani without the necessary legal documents. Rani was taken to Chaaya Animal Hospital and Shelter while the case was presented in court.

CAPE Foundation's Involvement:

Subrata informed CAPE Foundation about the situation, prompting CAPE's legal team to intervene. However, the legal battle took an unexpected turn as the Investigating Officer, Swapan Kumar Roy, failed to produce CAPE's inspection documents in court. Instead, he spoke on behalf of the circus, leading to the magistrate granting Nataraj Circus permission to take Rani back.

Drama and Controversy:

Despite her injury and exhaustion, Rani was forcibly taken from Chaaya Animal Hospital and Shelter by Nataraj Circus personnel, who showed false and outdated documents in court. This initiated a legal struggle to secure Rani's freedom.

Legal Victory:

CAPE Foundation's lawyers presented inspection reports, show-cause notices, and evidence of Nataraj Circus's mishandling of animals in court. This, combined with a history of allegations against the circus, led to a ruling in favor of animal welfare. On May 11, 2018, the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate of Barrackpore court ordered Nataraj Circus to submit weekly medical reports of Rani's health, as determined by a government veterinary officer.

Legal Victory:

Despite initial compliance by Nataraj Circus, they stopped submitting medical reports. On September 19, 2018, the Calcutta High Court granted permanent custody of Rani to CAPE Foundation, allowing her to be sent back to her home state.

Triumph Over Challenges:

Rani returned to Chaaya Animal Hospital and Shelter, where her hind limb injury was treated. After a well-deserved rest, she embarked on a journey of four nights and three days to reach Help in Suffering (HIS) Jaipur, a camel rescue center in Rajasthan. Here, she finally enjoys a life of freedom and comfort among her own kind, leaving behind years of neglect and torture.

Conclusion:

Rani's story is a testament to the determination of individuals and organizations in the fight against animal cruelty. Her journey from circus captivity to freedom is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through unwavering commitment to the welfare and rights of animals. Rani's resilience and the collective efforts of those who fought for her have given her a new lease on life.