Maharashtra Forest Minister Orders Probe Into Thane Monkey Attack Case
Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik has declared that the disturbing incident of attacks on monkeys in Thane's Upvan area will be thoroughly investigated, with appropriate action to follow. This announcement comes in response to concerns raised by Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray, who highlighted the issue on Tuesday.
MLA Aaditya Thackeray Demands Strict Action Against Poachers
Aaditya Thackeray brought attention to the case where bonnet macaques were shot with arrows by unknown individuals in the Upvan region of Thane. He emphasized the need for stringent measures against poachers and those involved in such cruel acts. The state forest department has already filed a preliminary offence report against an unidentified person under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, as bonnet macaques are highly protected under Schedule 1 of the act, underscoring the severity of the offense.
Concerns Over SGNP Master Plan and Gorai Mangrove Park
In addition to the wildlife attack, Aaditya Thackeray raised questions about the recently approved Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) master plan. He pointed out that public or elected representatives' consultation has not been formally accounted for in the approval process. "One doubts if this is to regularise the illegal bungalows of ministers in the forest," he remarked, suggesting potential irregularities.
Furthermore, Thackeray addressed the delay in opening the Gorai Mangrove Park, which has been ready for the past six months but remains inaccessible to citizens. In response, Forest Minister Ganesh Naik assured that the park will be opened soon, promising to expedite the process for public benefit.
The incident has sparked widespread concern among wildlife activists and local residents, calling for enhanced protection measures for urban wildlife in Maharashtra. The investigation is expected to shed light on the perpetrators and prevent future occurrences of such attacks.
