Introduction
Wildlife in India is protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which aims to safeguard animals, birds, and their habitats. Here’s a simple and detailed guide on how to report and take legal action under this Act.
Which Violations Can Be Reported?
The Act protects many species of animals, birds, and plants, especially endangered ones.
Crimes include poaching, illegal hunting, capturing, or killing of protected species.
Illegal trade of wildlife parts like ivory, tiger skin, or rare medicinal plants is punishable.
Destruction of wildlife habitats, like deforestation in protected areas, can also be reported.
Possession or sale of wild animals as pets, without proper permits, is a violation.
Who Should The Crime Be Reported To?
The forest department and wildlife warden handle most wildlife cases.
The local police can also register a case, especially if immediate action is needed.
The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) is the national agency dealing with wildlife-related offenses.
NGOs and wildlife activists can also help in escalating cases and providing legal guidance.
Some state governments have special wildlife protection units that handle such cases.
What Are The Steps To Gather Evidence?
Take clear photos and videos of the incident, if it is safe to do so.
Note down the date, time, and location of the violation.
Try to collect details about vehicles, people involved, and any weapons or equipment used.
If you are a witness, write down everything you remember about the event.
If the crime involves trade, try to get details of where the items are being sold.
What Are The Steps To File An FIR?
An FIR (First Information Report) is the first step in taking legal action against offenders.
Go to the nearest police station or forest office and submit a written complaint.
Clearly mention all details, including what happened, where, and who was involved.
Keep a copy of the FIR for reference and follow up regularly on its progress.
If the police refuse to file an FIR, you can report the matter to senior authorities.
Can Wildlife Crimes Be Reported Online?
Yes, the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) has an online complaint system on its website.
Some state forest departments also allow online submissions of complaints.
There are wildlife protection NGOs that accept reports and assist in legal action.
You can call the WCCB helpline number to report urgent wildlife crimes.
Many social media pages of forest departments allow reporting via direct messages.
What Happens After Filing A Complaint?
Authorities will investigate the case by collecting evidence and questioning suspects.
If the crime is serious, they may arrest the accused and seize illegal items.
A charge sheet is filed in court, and the case is taken up for legal proceedings.
If needed, expert opinions from wildlife specialists may be taken during investigations.
The accused may face strict penalties depending on the severity of the crime.
Which Locations Do Wildlife Crime Cases Conduct Trials?
Most cases are handled in a magistrate court, where initial hearings take place.
If the case is serious, it may be moved to a sessions court.
Some cases, especially those involving large wildlife smuggling operations, may go to higher courts.
Special environmental courts or green tribunals may also handle habitat destruction cases.
The legal process can take time, so regular follow-ups are important.
What Are The Penalties Associating This Case?
The punishment depends on the severity of the crime.
Minor offenses may lead to fines ranging from a few thousand to several lakhs.
Serious offenses, like poaching endangered species, can result in up to 7 years of imprisonment.
Repeat offenders or organized wildlife smugglers may face even stricter penalties.
Courts may also impose additional penalties, such as property seizure, if the crime involves illegal trade.
Conclusion
Protecting wildlife is not just the government’s responsibility, it’s everyone’s duty. If one witness a wildlife crime, it is advised not to stay silent. Reporting it can help prevent further damage to our environment. Hence, the Wildlife Protection Act is a support in taking legal action.
