Maneka Gandhi reignites debate over peacock feather exemption for Jain monks
BJP leader and animal rights activist Maneka Gandhi has stirred controversy by calling for a review of the exemption granted to Jain monks under India's Wildlife Protection Act, which allows them to use peacock feathers for making 'pichhis' — broom-like whisks used to gently brush away insects without harming them. Speaking to the media, Gandhi argued that this exemption has created loopholes that drive illegal hunting of the national bird, the peacock.
Exemption under Wildlife Protection Act 1972
Gandhi noted that the Wildlife Protection Act was enacted in 1972, and from the outset, Jain monks of the Digambara sect were exempted from its provisions to use peacock feathers for pichhis. She contended that this exemption has led to a commercial industry around peacock feathers, which far exceeds the natural supply of shed feathers. “Peacocks do not shed their feathers in enough quantities to match the availability in the market. The reality is that these feathers are now obtained almost exclusively by killing peacocks,” she said.
Previous attempt to amend law in 2001
Gandhi disclosed that she had previously attempted to amend the law in 2001 to address this issue but faced strong resistance from Jain organisations at that time. She insisted that her current comments were not aimed at targeting any community but were solely intended to highlight wildlife conservation concerns.
Jain organisations demand inquiry and legal action
Gandhi's remarks have drawn sharp criticism from Jain groups. The Vishva Jain Sangathan submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding an inquiry into Gandhi's statements. Another organisation, Bharatiya Jain Milan, also submitted a memorandum to the Dehradun Additional District Magistrate Smita Parmar Jaiswal, addressed to the Prime Minister, protesting against Gandhi's comments. A key member of the organisation stated that they are seeking a criminal case against Gandhi for allegedly provoking religious sentiments of the Jain community.
Jain community feels hurt
Members of the Jain community have expressed dismay, believing that Gandhi's remarks hurt their religious feelings. They have urged the government to initiate an inquiry and even take legal action against the former Union minister. The controversy highlights the ongoing tension between wildlife conservation efforts and religious practices protected under Indian law.
