Navin M. Raheja vs U.O.I. and Others

While this Court has been monitoring the case for taking effective steps to save the population of Tigers from extinction and to curb the menace of poaching, our attention has been drawn to a recent tragedy in which 12 Tigers are reported to have died in the Zoo at Nandan Kanan (State of Orissa). That is a matter of concern. Mr. Altaf Ahmed, learned Additional Solicitor General submits, on instructions, that the Central Government is seized of this position and has already deputed a high powered team to Nandan Kanan. The team is expected to submit the report by the 15th of this month.

We may have to consider the larger issue of protection of Tiger population, not only in the Forests but also in the Zoos where they are in captive custody. The examination of the report of the Team deputed by the Central Government to Nandan Kanan, in that case would have a great bearing. We, accordingly, adjourn the matter by three weeks. Copy of the report and the ATRs. based thereon, shall be filed by the learned Additional Solicitor General in this Court in the meanwhile. The same shall be supported by the affidavits of Mr. S.C. Sharma, Additional Inspector General (Wildlife). List after three weeks.