Home / Environment / Odisha Wildlife Crime: No Poachers Jailed?
Odisha Wildlife Crime: No Poachers Jailed?
3 Oct
Summary
- No tiger or elephant poacher has faced jail in Odisha, claims WSO.
- Exotic animals like orangutans and bear cubs found abandoned in Odisha.
- Tiger numbers plummeted in Similipal and Satkosia reserves.
An environmental group has asserted that no poachers responsible for killing tigers or elephants have been jailed in Odisha, citing inadequate enforcement by the wildlife wing. This lack of accountability has potentially made the state a haven for wildlife traffickers. Recent incidents include the discovery of abandoned orangutan and bear cubs, raising mysteries about how these exotic animals arrived in the region.
Tiger populations have significantly decreased, with Similipal Reserve dropping from over 101 to around 30 tigers, and Satkosia Reserve reportedly losing all its tigers. Similarly, large seizures of leopard skins and the deaths of numerous elephants due to poaching over the past 15 years underscore the severity of wildlife crime.
The Principal Chief Wildlife Warden acknowledged a low conviction rate but assured that systems are being enhanced to improve outcomes. Police involvement is being sought to strengthen investigations and ensure offenders face justice, as authorities work to combat rampant wildlife trafficking and poaching.
