In an order (dated 18.07.2016), Rajasthan government has formed a state-level committee, headed by principal secretary, forests to monitor and control the work to the district-level committee, which would work on a priority basis to check poaching of the National bird and illegal possession and trade of peacock feathers. The committee would also draft a strategy under Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 to penalize those found in possession of feathers.

While the state-level level committee would meet at least twice a year, the district-level committee, headed by the district collector, forest and police officials, would convene at least four times a year. To ensure regular monitoring, the district-level committee will send the report to the state-level committee in every six months. The members of both the committees would hold office for a term of three years.

The state-level committee would also ensure that there is no illegal stocking and trading of peacock feathers and, if needed, to order a forensic investigation. Besides, the committees would ensure spreading awareness on peacock conservation and keep a district-wise head count of peacocks every year.

The petition by BabulalJajoo was filed with the grievance that there is rampant poaching of peacocks and the poachers brutally trap the birds, break their legs to pull out the feathers and finally killing them. The feathers, despite ban on their trade, are sold openly in market.

"The government is not serious about conserving the national bird. Incidents of peacock poaching are very rampant in the state. Maximum numbers of cases are reported in Bundi, Jodhpur, Ajmer, Tonk, Nagaur, Bhilwara and Jhunjhunu.

The poachers sell or consume the meat and feathers are transported and sold openly. Even when there is a provision of five years of imprisonment and Rs 50,000 fine, so far the offenders have easily been released on bail. Forming committees won't make any difference in their dwindling numbers," said BabulalJajoo.