Berhampur: In a significant move for wildlife conservation in Odisha, Shri Vishwanath Neelannvar, the Regional Chief Conservator of Forests for the Berhampur Circle, has issued a compassionate directive to protect animals from exploitation during upcoming traditional festivities.
The directive issued to all Divisional Forest Officers of the Circle, calls for a rigorous ban on the illegal display and transport of wild animals during the Danda Jatra festival, which is slated to begin in March.
This intervention follows reports that various committees organizing social dramas during the festival often use live animals, particularly snakes and other reptiles, as part of their public shows.
Such practices are identified as violations of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023.
Under this new mandate, forest officials are authorized to take legal action against any individuals or organizations found infringing upon these animal welfare regulations.
To complement enforcement, the department is also launching awareness programs designed to educate village committees about the legal penalties and the importance of humane treatment.
RCCF Shri Neelannvar has further requested that District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police in Ganjam, Gajapati, Kandhamal, and Boudh include strict animal protection clauses as a prerequisite for granting festival permissions.
This coordinated effort aims to ensure that cultural celebrations are conducted responsibly without causing distress or harm to the region’s wildlife.