The office of the Divisional Forest Officer, Ukhrul Forest Division on Friday issued a circular in public interest banning hunting, selling and trading of wildlife and wildlife articles within Ukhrul District.
The circular issued by DFO Laishram Gitla stated that, “it has come to the notice of the Forest Department that instances of sale of wildlife meat/articles are being carried out at some specific places of Ukhrul District, particularly in local markets in festive occasions. Such activities are in violation of the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, a central legislation enacted to ensure the protection of wild animals and their habitats.”
In view of this, the general public is hereby informed and cautioned that:
1. Hunting or killing of any wild animal listed under Schedules I to IV of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 is strictly prohibited under Section 9 of the Act, except under special permission granted by the competent authority.
2. Under Section 49B & Chapter VB, the trade or commerce in wild animals, animal articles, trophies, uncured trophies, or meat derived from scheduled animals is completely banned.
3. Section 50 of the Act empowers Forest Officers and Police Officers to search, seize, and arrest any person found committing offences under the Act without a warrant.
4. As per Section 51, any person who contravenes the provisions of the Act shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years, or with a fine which may extend to ₹1,00,000 (Rupees One Lakh), or with both.
5. In the case of offences relating to animals listed under Schedule I (such as Pangolin, Indian Porcupine, Hoolock Gibbon, Leopard Cat, Small & Large Indian Civet, Hog Deer, Slow Loris, Indian Python, Monitor Lizards, Tokay Gecko, Hornbill, Amur Falcon, Blyth’s Tragopan etc.), the punishment is mandatory imprisonment for a term not less than three years, which may extend to seven years, and also with a fine which shall not be less than 25,000 (Twenty five Thousand Rupees).
6. Offence relating to Schedule-I animals are Cognizable and Non-Bailable under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Therefore the Public of Ukhrul is strictly advised to refrain from:
1. Hunting or capturing any form of wildlife
2. Selling, purchasing, transporting, or consuming wildlife meat
3. Displaying or trading in wildlife trophies, skins, bones, or other animal parts
Any person found violating these provisions shall face legal action, including arrest, seizure of materials, and prosecution under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
“The Forest Department seeks the active cooperation of all citizens of Ukhrul District, Civil Society Organisations, Village Authorities and Youth Clubs to safeguard the rich biodiversity and wildlife heritage of the District. Collective efforts are essential to ensure ecological balance and to protect wildlife for future generations. Let us join hands in conserving our natural wealth” added the circular.
