Camel used for riding dies at Ramlila site, activists allege negligence

Ghaziabad: A camel used for entertainment and joyrides at the Ramlila festivities in Raj Nagar died on October 8, allegedly due to neglect.
An animal welfare group claimed the camel was unwell for several days, overworked, and also denied food and water. Despite its illness, no medical care was provided, the group alleged.
Anamika from the Federation of India Animal Protection Organizations (FIAPO) said, "At the Ramlila organised by Raj Nagar's committee, a young camel was exploited for entertainment.Authorities should investigate if proper permissions were taken to use the animal at the festivities."
Jaikumar Gupta, president of the Ramlila committee, stated they were unaware of the camel's deteriorating health, which led to its sudden death. He added, "We carried out the camel's final rites according to traditional customs. The contractor procured the camel from Muzaffarpur in Bihar, but it was not used for rides due to illness."
The forest department noted camels don't fall under their jurisdiction as they are categorised as cattle and not wildlife.
A GMC official told TOI that the Ramlila contactor cremated the camel's body.
ACP Abhishek Srivastava said, "We are investigating the matter, and if the claims are proven true, appropriate action will follow."