NAGPUR: Bombay high court on Monday took suo motu cognizance of tourists cornering a tigress and her five cubs in Umred-Pauni-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary near Gothangaon Gate, ordering principal chief conservator of forests (PCCF) to submit a detailed affidavit by Wednesday, outlining actions taken and preventive measures.
In the viral videos of the December 31 incident, safari vehicles are seen crowding around the tigress, identified as F-2, and her cubs from both sides of the road in the buffer zone to help the tourists capture photos and videos. Trapped and agitated, the tigress displayed signs of aggression as she attempted to retreat.
The videos drew sharp criticism from wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.
Nagpur bench comprising justices Nitin Sambre and Vrushali Joshi reprimanded forest officials for failing to monitor violations inside the sanctuary and relying solely on social media to detect incidents. They demanded a robust mechanism to prevent such lapses and ensure better enforcement of wildlife protection laws. The sanctuary’s field director informed HC that action was taken against some guides and drivers.
Forest officials filed an FIR against offenders under Wildlife Protection Act, which mandates jail up to three years or fines up to Rs25,000. The court hinted at stricter enforcement and penalties to act as deterrents against future violations.
The guides and drivers failed to follow established protocols, which mandate maintaining a safe distance and avoiding any disturbance to wildlife, forest officials said.
