Chhattisgarh: 17 monkeys shot dead, forest department orders probe
The Chhattisgarh Forest Department has initiated an investigation into the reported deaths of 18-19 monkeys in Belgaon village, Bemetara district. According to a panchayat representative, at least 17 monkeys were allegedly shot by two laborers hired by villagers to chase away a pack of simians. The representative accused the Forest Department of attempting to conceal this incident. However, a senior official from the department stated that the exact cause behind these deaths is still under investigation.
Panchayat representative alleges cover-up by authorities
Sitaram Verma, Panch of the Belgaon village panchayat, claimed that the incident occurred on August 28 when two individuals opened fire on monkeys. He said that a meeting was recently held in the village to hire laborers to control simians which invade houses and damage horticulture crops. "I disagreed with villagers because monkeys are worshiped as Lord Hanuman. I didn't agree to resort to such violent measures to harass them," he stated.
Delayed response and evidence tampering alleged
Verma further alleged that state government authorities were alerted about the monkey killings but only visited the village two days after the incident. "Carcasses of several monkeys were consumed by stray dogs. The forest department took away rotten carcasses and skeletons of seven monkeys," he added. He also claimed to have shared a video and photos of 17 dead monkeys with authorities, accusing them of trying to cover up this incident.
Forest department's response
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Durg Forest Division, Chandrashekhar Pardeshi, confirmed the recovery of four rotten monkey carcasses from the village. "There are only skeletons left. Samples have been sent for forensic examination and further investigation is underway," he said. He added that some suspects are being questioned in connection with this incident and action will be taken under the Wildlife Protection Act against those found guilty.
Legal consequences and public reaction to the incident
The DFO explained that under the Wildlife Protection Act, those found guilty could face up to three years of imprisonment and a fine of ₹25,000. Preliminary investigations suggest that local farmers, frustrated by crop damage caused by monkeys, may have hired individuals to kill these animals. The incident has sparked outrage and raised concerns about wildlife protection and human-animal conflict in the region. Authorities are under pressure to swiftly identify culprits and ensure justice is served.
