In an effort to stop exploitation of Rivaldo, a physically challenged tusker, an elephant lover has launched an online petition on Face book.

Rajeev N. Kurup, a statistical investigator working with the Kerala Government, has said that resorts have been collecting money from tourists ‘using’ the tusker. He has appealed to the public to write to the forest department to take action against resort owners for making money through Rivaldo.

The issue came to light when the forest officials issued notice stating that any institution or individual trying to use Rivaldo for making money would be strictly dealt with as per law and that the tusker was being monitored by the authorities.

The Covai Post, in a video, had highlighted Rivaldo’s plight – his inability to take food due to injury in trunk it suffered a year ago. It also showed how local and the department officials had saved the pachyderm and started feeding him as a result of which the animal had became dependent.

However, it was learnt, that resorts had started charging their guests for selfies with Rivaldo. Also a specific charge was levied to have a glimpse of him too.

Seeking action and end to cruelty to Rivaldo, Rajeev has sought people’s help in this. According to him, a friendly Rivaldo would get physically and mentally tired and sick if the same continued. “He is a wild animal. He might turn violent or aggressive. It is dangerous for humans,” he said in his petition.