Kochi | The Kerala High Court on Friday sought response of the state government and the Paramekavu and Thiruvambady Devaswoms on a PIL seeking issuance of directions with regard to parading of elephants during temple festivals, including the upcoming Thrissur Pooram on April 26.

While admitting the PIL and issuing notice to the state government and the two devaswoms which organise the pooram, a bench of Justice Ziyad Rahman and K V Jayakumar pointed out that a similar issue was pending before the Supreme Court and therefore, the High Court cannot issue any directions for the time being.

The court was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) by a Thrissur resident, V K Venkitachalam, who has claimed that there is a 2013 state government circular which mandates that elephants shall not be subjected to conditions causing stress, fear or injury, adequate safety distance must be maintained from fireworks and they should not be paraded during peak heat hours.

"Notwithstanding the statutory and executive framework, there are widespread and recurring violations during temple festivals across the state, particularly in connection with Thrissur Pooram.

"Elephants are exposed to high-decibel fireworks in close proximity, made to stand amidst dense crowds without maintaining prescribed safety distances, paraded during restricted hours, and subjected to prolonged periods without adequate rest, food, or water," the plea has claimed.

It has sought strict enforcement of the Kerala Captive Elephants (Management and Maintenance) Rules, 2012, and the 2013 government circular in connection with the festivals.

The court listed the matter for further hearing on May 25.