By | Ajay Pandey
⭕ Suspense Over Big Cat Poaching in Bijnor
Bijnor, UP : A shocking case of illegal hunting has surfaced from the Amangarh Tiger Reserve in Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh. Acting on a tip-off, the forest department raided a camp and arrested five suspected poachers, recovering the remains of a large cat. Officials have confirmed that the remains could belong to either a tiger or a leopard, but the exact identity will only be known after forensic testing at the Dehradun laboratory. Since no skin was recovered and only partial remains were seized, the species cannot yet be determined. A high-level meeting was held at the Dhamapur Forest Office under the chairmanship of the Chief Conservator of Forests, who assured that the case is being investigated in detail and the seized remains are being sent for scientific verification.
⭕ A Widespread National Problem
The Bijnor case highlights a larger national challenge of wildlife poaching and illegal trade in endangered species. Between 2017 and 2019, India recorded 1,256 cases of illegal wildlife trading and poaching, with 2,313 offenders arrested. In the same period, 1,256 endangered animals were reported killed, including species from the big cat family. According to the Wildlife Protection Society of India (WPSI), more than 33,300 wildlife crime cases have been recorded involving over 400 species, revealing widespread trafficking networks across the country. Earlier reports also show over 30,000 wildlife crime cases registered up to 2016, proving that the menace is persistent and widespread.
⭕ Strict Punishments Under Wildlife Act
Under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which has been amended over the years, the law provides strict penalties for hunting endangered species. For hunting of Schedule I and II animals like tigers and leopards, there is a minimum of three years imprisonment, extendable to seven years, along with a fine of not less than ₹10,000, which may increase in serious or repeat cases up to ₹25,000 or more. If hunting occurs inside a national park or tiger reserve, the offence is considered even more serious, bail becomes difficult, and property used in the offence can be seized. Repeat offences attract stricter punishment with higher fines and the same three to seven-year jail term.
⭕ Need for Stronger Enforcement
These provisions are aimed at deterring poaching, but conviction rates remain a concern due to challenges in investigation, evidence collection, and lengthy trials. The Bijnor incident, still under investigation, once again underscores the urgent need for stronger enforcement, tighter monitoring of reserves, and coordinated action against wildlife trafficking networks. With India being home to nearly 70% of the world’s tigers, the stakes are extremely high, and every case of poaching poses a direct threat to conservation efforts.
