Delhi Zoo Irregularities: Activist Demands Probe

A wildlife activist has lodged a formal complaint with the Union environment minister, highlighting significant alleged misconduct at the Delhi Zoo and demanding an immediate, independent investigation. The complaint, dated January 24, 2026, points to serious issues including the illegal felling of approximately 100 trees last year, alleged black marketing of tickets, and the use of untrained multi-tasking staff within animal enclosures.

Further allegations suggest violations of key wildlife and animal welfare acts, alongside Central Zoo Authority guidelines. The activist raised concerns about the recent deaths of critically endangered Schedule-I animals, possibly due to severe staff negligence. Specific instances cited include the alleged use of rat poison leading to the deaths of three Four-horned Antelopes and accountability sought for the deaths of an Indian Rhinoceros, Black Buck, and the African Elephant, Shankar.

The activist criticized the current internal inquiry into a separate jackal death incident as a conflict of interest. They urged the ministry and the Central Zoo Authority to order a time-bound investigation by an external agency and to suspend the zoo director and other implicated staff. These concerns follow recent accusations of a jackal being burned alive by staff while trying to capture it after its escape.