Karnataka Forest Minister Orders Comprehensive Investigation into Leopard Poaching Incident
Forest Minister Eshwar B Khandre has issued a directive for a thorough and detailed investigation into the tragic death of a leopardess by gunshot in the Koppa division. The incident occurred near the Periyapatna range within the Hunsur territorial range on Monday, sparking immediate concern among wildlife authorities.
Immediate Response and Team Formation
Hunsur Deputy Conservator of Forests RT Kirubananthan confirmed that a specialized team has been swiftly formed with the explicit mission to track down the miscreants responsible for this heinous act. The two-year-old leopardess was discovered dead with clear gunshot injuries, highlighting the brutal nature of the crime.
Following standard protocols, the carcass was destroyed after all necessary formalities were completed to prevent any potential health hazards or illegal trade of remains.
Minister's Directive and Concerns Over Poaching
In a written directive addressed to the Chief Wildlife Warden, Minister Khandre expressed profound sorrow over the incident. He emphasized that the death of the leopardess from gunshots indicates that poaching for the organs of wild animals remains a persistent and alarming issue in the region.
"This tragic event underscores the ongoing threat to our wildlife and the need for stringent enforcement of anti-poaching laws," the minister stated, calling for an urgent and comprehensive investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Postmortem Findings and Legal Action
Dr. Adarsh, who conducted the postmortem examination of the deceased leopard, reported the discovery of three bullets inside the leopardess's body. This critical evidence points to a deliberate and violent attack, rather than an accidental occurrence.
Based on this detailed report, Minister Khandre has instructed authorities to launch a full-scale investigation aimed at identifying the wildlife poachers involved. The goal is to ensure they face legal prosecution under the relevant wildlife protection statutes, sending a strong message against such crimes.
The forest department is now mobilizing resources to enhance surveillance and preventive measures in vulnerable areas to safeguard other wildlife from similar fates.
