Two arrested for illegal hunting of egrets in Dibrugarh
A CORRESPONDENT
DIBRUGARH: The Dibrugarh Forest Department on Tuesday arrested two persons for hunting egrets, which are protected under the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The accused, identified as Vijay Majhi and Rajesh Karmakar, were arrested in the Milan Nagar area following the circulation of videos showing their hunting activities on social media. The videos that went viral prompted an immediate investigation by the Forest Department.
Dibrugarh Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Nandha Kumar said, “Egrets are listed under Schedule IV of the Act, which strictly prohibits their hunting. Our department is committed to enforcing the law to preserve wildlife, and strict action will be taken against them.”
Under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, hunting egrets is classified as a non-bailable offence, reflecting the seriousness of the crime. Certain species, such as the Little Egret and Cattle Egret, are also categorized under Schedule II, further emphasizing the need for stringent protection of these birds.
“People must understand the ramifications of illegal hunting. Our laws are designed to protect these vulnerable species. We have to create awareness among the public on the importance of wildlife conservation,” the DFO added.
Also Read: Assam: Lumding Police Foil Illegal Bird Hunting Operation in Forest, Three Arrested
Also Watch: