An investigation by a Right to Information (RTI) activist has uncovered that probes into 88 tiger deaths across India have been shelved due to administrative hurdles. The revelations come as a blow to wildlife conservationists who have been pressing for accountability in the rising number of tiger fatalities.
RTI findings highlight systemic failures
The RTI response, obtained from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), indicates that the death of 88 tigers in various states between 2019 and 2021 were not properly investigated. The cases were closed without conclusive findings, often citing lack of evidence or procedural delays.
State-wise breakdown of pending probes
According to the data, Madhya Pradesh reported the highest number of unresolved cases, with 22 tiger deaths pending investigation. Other states with significant numbers include Maharashtra (14), Karnataka (11), and Uttar Pradesh (8). The NTCA has admitted that the probes were hampered due to shortage of staff and lack of forensic facilities.
Wildlife experts have expressed alarm over the findings. Dr. Rajesh Gopal, a former member of the NTCA, stated: “This is a serious indictment of our conservation efforts. If we cannot even investigate the deaths of our national animal, how can we claim to protect them?”
Impact on tiger conservation
The lack of thorough investigations has broader implications for tiger conservation in India. Without knowing the exact causes of death, it becomes difficult to implement preventive measures. Poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict remain major threats, but without proper data, conservation strategies may be misdirected.
Environmental activist Mohan Singh, who filed the RTI application, said: “The administrative burial of these cases is a betrayal of the tiger. We demand a transparent and time-bound investigation into every tiger death.”
Government response
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has acknowledged the delays and assured that steps are being taken to streamline the process. A spokesperson said: “We are aware of the concerns and have initiated measures to strengthen the investigation mechanism. Additional staff and resources are being allocated to the NTCA.”
However, critics argue that without independent oversight, the problem will persist. They have called for the establishment of a specialized tiger death investigation unit, similar to the ones for human crime scenes.
Conclusion
The RTI findings underscore the urgent need for administrative reforms in wildlife crime investigation. As India works towards its goal of doubling the tiger population, ensuring that every death is thoroughly probed is not just a legal requirement but a moral imperative.
