Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Apr 30: A leopard that was trapped while roaming in Villian village near the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary died in the early hours of Tuesday at Bondla Zoo, where it had been brought for treatment. The tragic incident has led to the Forest Minister, Vishwajit Rane, ordering an inquiry and issuing a show-cause notice to Deputy Conservator of Forest (DCF) Wildlife, Navin Kumar, for alleged dereliction of duty.

Minister Rane confirmed that the leopard, which had been captured by the Forest Department on Monday, passed away around 2 am while under medical care at the zoo. The wild cat had been found roaming in Villian village, prompting concerns among locals and the department, leading to its capture and subsequent treatment.

Expressing his dismay over the incident, minister Rane stated, “It is shameful that an officer like Navin Kumar had to be forced to go on the field and perform his duties. He was compelled by the Chief Conservator of Forest to visit Bondla and assess the situation.” Rane further emphasized that it was unfortunate the leopard could not be saved despite the department’s efforts.

In response to the incident, Rane announced that a formal communication would be sent to the Director General of Forests to initiate appropriate actions against Kumar, including his immediate relief from Goa Forest Services.

The minister reaffirmed the state government's commitment to wildlife protection and stated that NGOs and other stakeholders would be actively involved in safeguarding the state's wildlife.

He also pointed to the rising issue of animals being hit by vehicles while crossing roads near wildlife sanctuaries in Goa, pledging to raise the issue with the government to implement speed limits on roads passing through these areas.

The incident has drawn significant attention to the management of wildlife and the need for more vigilant monitoring and responsive action to protect animals in Goa's wildlife sanctuaries.