It is called Kaavan and has been dubbed by activists, who have fought for the liberation of the past five years, as the “loneliest elephant in the world”.
This animal spent its entire life, 35 years, confined in a zoo enclosure in Pakistan. Kaavan was kept in chains and exhibited symptoms of mental illness, but now, he is finally free.
Since 2012, the elephant has been alone, after the death of its only companion, and its history has gained international recognition. Famous singer Cher joined the fight to free Kaavan in 2016 and several celebrities joined her.
The petition to release the elephant garnered 400,000 signatures, and in May 2020, the Pakistani court approved Kaavan’s move from the zoo where he was neglected to a sanctuary in Cambodia.
Now, three months after the court’s decision, Kaavan has received medical clearance to travel to Cambodia where he will have better living conditions.
The animal is overweight, with signs of malnutrition, nails in poor condition due to the inappropriate place where he was kept in captivity, and shows clear signs of neglect, however, the medical report indicates that he is healthy enough to be able to travel and head long recovery not only on a physical level but also on a behavioral level.
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