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Tiger Cub Death Spurs Safari Safety Probe
2 Jul
Summary
- Cub of tigress T-151 died in a territorial fight with tiger T-661.
- Wildlife activist alleges mandatory safety protocols were ignored during safaris.
- Calls made to discontinue full-day safaris to prioritize conservation.
The recent death of a sub-adult tigress cub at Panna Tiger Reserve has intensified calls for discontinuing full-day safaris across Madhya Pradesh. Wildlife activist Ajay Dubey has formally requested a high-level investigation into the reserve's safari operations, alleging that mandatory safety protocols were neglected.
The cub, belonging to tigress T-151, was killed in an inter-tiger territorial fight with tiger T-661 on June 30. This incident occurred in the presence of two full-day safari vehicles, according to a representation made to the Chief Wildlife Warden. Dubey argues that the absence of trained forest personnel in these vehicles prevented timely information gathering about the conflict, potentially delaying a response that could have saved the cub.
Dubey's representation further claims that the practice of stationing forest staff with full-day safari vehicles was abandoned in January 2026. This decision, he contends, has left extended safari operations within the core area unmonitored, raising concerns that revenue generation might be prioritized over wildlife protection. He urged authorities to verify deployment records and hold accountable any officials found in violation of permit conditions.
