Libertatem Magazine

Abnormal Deaths of Wildlife in North Bengal, Calcutta HC Takes Suo Moto Cognizance Against the Forest Department

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The Calcutta High Court took notice of the unnatural deaths of elephants, bison and other wild animals in North Bengal. There are reports of action taken against people for the killing of bison. Newspapers have also reported regarding the same. Some of the reasons for the unnatural deaths could be electrocution and killing for gain or game.

Facts of the case

The suo moto petition is against the Union of India, represented through Animal Welfare Division of Ministry of Environment and Forest, Government of West Bengal represented by the Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary, Department of forest and others. 

The Decision of the Court

The court is of the view that the nation’s Forest Wealth cannot be devoid of wildlife. The court has identified certain critically important areas which include Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar district where more than 60% of the deaths have happened due to electrocution. The Chief Wildlife Warden is asked to present a report regarding the situation within 2 weeks with relation to the unnatural deaths of elephants, bison and other wild animals, birds, reptiles amphibians etc. in North Bengal during the recent past.


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