Guwahati, Aug. 21 -- The death of Durga, a pregnant wild Asian elephant in Assam's Golaghat district, has triggered serious questions over alleged official apathy and the failure of authorities to provide timely medical intervention despite repeated warnings about her deteriorating health.

Durga, who had been suffering from multiple ailments and was also fitted with a malfunctioning radio collar weighing around 20 kg, died at Doigrung in Numaligarh on August 17.

A post-mortem examination conducted by government veterinarians found a nearly fully developed calf in her womb.

Wildlife conservation groups and local residents have demanded a high-level inquiry to determine whether timely intervention could have saved Durga and her unborn ca...