Delhi Zoo’s Membership Suspended by WAZA for Six Months

The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) suspended the Delhi zoo’s membership due to concerns over the care of Shankar, a solitary African elephant. Previously, zoo staff had chained Shankar for extended periods due to aggressive behavior. However, they removed the chains in June, and officials claimed he now roams freely in his enclosure.

In a letter to India’s Central Zoo Authority (CZA), WAZA warned of further consequences if it fails to meet its 2023 animal welfare goals by November 30. These goals include establishing animal welfare evaluation processes based on agreed standards and enforcing them. The Delhi zoo operates under CZA, a statutory body under the Union Ministry of Environment. CZA sets minimum standards for animal care and oversees the establishment of zoos across India.

WAZA, which includes over 400 members worldwide, has given the Delhi zoo six months—until April 7, 2025—to comply with its code of ethics. The organization expressed concern for Shankar, stating, “The concern pertains to the welfare of a solitary male African elephant, Shankar, who was reportedly restrained with chains at the New Delhi Zoo.” As a result, WAZA’s Council voted to suspend the zoo’s membership immediately.

To lift the suspension, the zoo must develop and implement a plan within six months to either relocate Shankar or address management concerns. WAZA requires the zoo to submit this plan for review and approval. If relocation is necessary, the zoo must prepare Shankar using positive reinforcement techniques to reduce stress and ensure a smooth transition.

WAZA emphasized, “If, after six months, the New Delhi Zoo doesn’t have a plan to relocate Shankar approved by WAZA or address the concerns within a clearly defined timeframe, its WAZA membership will be terminated.” As of October 8, 2024, the National Zoological Park in New Delhi is officially suspended, losing all WAZA membership rights and benefits.

Shankar arrived at the Delhi Zoo in 1998 as a diplomatic gift from Zimbabwe. After the death of his partner, Bombai, in 2005, he became the last African elephant at the zoo. In June, the 29-year-old elephant was tranquilized for a health assessment and the removal of his chains. Last year, during musth, he displayed aggressive behavior, damaging property and injuring himself, which prompted staff to tether him. Zoo officials reported that Shankar is responding well to therapy and remains unchained.

Zoo director Sujit Kumar acknowledged the suspension and stated, “Action deemed proper will be taken, and a compliance report will be sent.” Sanjay Shukla, member-secretary of CZA, mentioned plans to bring a female African elephant from Botswana to keep Shankar company.

Following WAZA’s warning, the Union Environment Ministry asserted that efforts to meet animal welfare goals are underway. They confirmed that CZA is aligning its animal welfare evaluation programs with WAZA’s standards and is on track to meet the November 30 deadline.

If CZA loses its WAZA membership, all nine Indian institutions associated with WAZA would also be non-compliant, potentially leading to their termination. Rejoining WAZA would require them to reapply and undergo the full membership process. WAZA has requested an urgent meeting within the next ten days to discuss how it can assist the CZA in meeting the deadline.