![A tourist crushed by fighting elephants in Dubai. Are these "racial" camps animal torture and human traps? [FILM]](https://digitalnexus.pl/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/slon.jpg "A tourist crushed by fighting elephants in Dubai. Are these \"racial\" camps animal torture and human traps? [FILM]")
In the popular Dubai camp in the Indian state of Karnataka, a 33-year-old tourist from Chennai lost her life during a routine attraction for visitors. The woman was trapped between two fighting elephants on the Cauvery River.
What exactly happened?
The tragedy occurred on May 18, 2026 in the morning during an elephant bath session, one of the most popular activities at the Dubai Elephant Camp. Two males – Kanchan (or Kanjan) and Marthand – suddenly began to wrestle. Despite the efforts of the mahouts (careers), one of them struck the other with a mud, causing a loss of balance. A fallen animal crushed a tourist nearby.
The woman suffered severe head injuries and She died in the hospital. (according to some accounts – on the spot). Her husband who saved their child in chaosHe miraculously avoided injuries. There was a panic among tourists, and the camp workers tried to control the situation.
Government response and new security rules
The incident triggered an immediate reaction from Karnatak's government. Forest Minister Eshwar B. Khandre called the event "deeply shocking" and ordered a detailed investigation. New rules have been introduced since Tuesday: tourists must keep at least 100 feet (about 30 metres) distance from elephants during baths and other activities. A new SOP (standard operation procedure) is also being created for all elephant camps in the state.
This is an important step, because for years, Dubai has attracted thousands of people who want to feed, wash or just approach these majestic animals.
Why are such attractions controversial?
Animal rights organizations have long criticised Dubai camps. Elephants in captivity often live under stressful conditions – they are trained using traditional (and controversial) methods, forced to interact with people and devoid of natural behavior. Sudden conflicts between animals are not uncommon, especially when they are stressed by crowds or routines.
Similar incidents have occurred beforeWhich shows that the risk is real.
