Times of India , Tuesday, June 07, 2005

Correspondent : PAYAL SAXENA

JHAJJAR (Haryana): The 'poaching' incident involving former cricket captain Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi came to light when the Jhajjar police intercepted two vehicles near village Kilrod - where the alleged hunting happened. Pataudi and company were on their way to Rewari. Of the vehicles, a Honda Accord was registered in the name of one Shashi Singh and a gypsy in Pataudi's name. Doubts about investigations have been raised as Section 50 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, empowers the police to detain, even without an arrest warrant, persons caught hunting endangered species. The Act states "a police officer can seize any captive animal, wild animal, animal article, meat or trophy" and also "any trap, tool, vehicle, weapon". Yet, police didn't impound the vehicles and allowed Pataudi to get away. Pointing out the shortcomings of the state wildlife department, chief conservator of forest, Chandigardh, K L Manhas, said: "We have a mere 3-4 vehicles for the entire state, whereas we need one vehicle for each district. Currently, the entire state has only about five vehicles for wildlife wing." Manhas said the department has sought Rs 1.35 crore from Centre. Vineet Garg, deputy conservator of forest, Jhajjar, said: "The staff count in each district currently stands at about 4-5, even though we require about 10 officials."

SOURCE : Times of India, Tuesday, June 07, 2005