Calcutta High Court's Wildlife Protection Directive Promotes Forest Conservation The High Court of Calcutta directed government officials to consider and implement Forest Department suggestions to control wildlife crime, particularly ...
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Calcutta High Court's Wildlife Protection Directive Promotes Forest Conservation
The High Court of Calcutta directed government officials to consider and implement Forest Department suggestions to control wildlife crime, particularly illegal trade and smuggling, emphasizing the importance of preserving forests and wildlife. The court prohibited illegal activities involving birds and animals during festivals and in pet markets, banning hunting, selling, buying, or exchanging of birds, and smuggling live birds. Enforcement by State Police and Customs Authorities was mandated, with strict penalties for violations. Non-compliance was deemed a dereliction of duty, with the next hearing scheduled for May 14, 2021, aiming to enhance wildlife conservation and protection efforts in West Bengal.
Issues: Wildlife management and conservation, Illegal wildlife trade and smuggling, Prevention of hunting and illegal activities involving birds and animals
In this judgment delivered by the High Court of Calcutta, the Chief Justice and another Judge directed the Chief Secretary and Secretary of the Home Department of the Government of West Bengal to consider and implement suggestions made by the Forest Department to control wildlife crime, especially illegal trade and smuggling. The court emphasized the critical importance of these measures in preserving forests, forest wealth, and wildlife. The court ordered the government officials to present their views on these suggestions after deliberations, highlighting the need to protect wildlife and forest resources effectively. The judgment underscores the significance of modernizing the Forest Force and raising awareness through media campaigns and community engagement to combat wildlife crime effectively.
Furthermore, the judgment addressed the issue of illegal activities involving birds and animals during local festivals and in pet markets in various districts of West Bengal. The court prohibited hunting, selling, buying, or exchanging of birds, in addition to the transport and smuggling of live birds through courier services or airports. The State Police, Customs Authorities, and other relevant officials were directed to enforce this prohibition rigorously. The court warned that any violation of this order would be promptly dealt with by the jurisdictional officers as per the law. The judgment also mandated the publication of this prohibitory order on government and court websites, emphasizing the need for strict compliance throughout the state.
The court emphasized that non-implementation of this order would be considered a dereliction of duty by the responsible officers. The judgment concluded by directing the Registrar General of the Court to record the report/lay-note and scheduled the next hearing for May 14, 2021. This comprehensive judgment aims to strengthen wildlife conservation efforts, prevent illegal wildlife activities, and ensure the protection of birds and animals in West Bengal through stringent enforcement measures and government collaboration.
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