KATHMANDU, JUNE 23

Several companies have reportedly cut ties with the Chitwan Elephant Festival following allegations of animal abuse raised by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). According to PETA, over half a dozen sponsors have pledged not to support the event in the future.

The organizations named by PETA as having withdrawn support include Pepsi, BYD, Nepal Investment Mega Bank (NIMB), Buddha Air, Mahalaxmi Bikas Bank, NLG Insurance, TechMinds Network, and Manakamana Darshan.

PETA claims the festival forces elephants to participate in games such as football by subjecting them to physical abuse. The organization released a video that allegedly shows handlers repeatedly jabbing and striking elephants with sticks and sharp objects during the event and while they wait to perform.

In its release, PETA cited responses from some companies distancing themselves from the event. TechMinds Network reportedly stated it 'firmly stands with PETA's campaign advocating for animal rights and welfare,' while NIMB was quoted as saying it is 'committed to stand against such animal abuse and cruelty.' Pepsi is said to have contacted the event organizers.

The animal rights group has urged the event's organizers to cancel the festival, calling it a 'cruel spectacle' that allegedly violates the dignity and well-being of elephants.

In nature, elephants live in matriarchal herds and roam freely. According to PETA, elephants used for entertainment are often isolated, confined, and subjected to psychological stress and physical harm.

Bollywood actor and producer John Abraham also sent a letter to Nepal's Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, urging the government to take action to prevent animal abuse at such events, PETA reported.