Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Nov 5: Acting on a video depicting two men capturing and mishandling an Indian python (Python molurus) – a species protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act (WPA), 1972 – in the Caranzalem area of Panjim, the North Goa Forest Division of the Goa Forest Department registered a preliminary offence report (POR) after hearing from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India.

According to PETA, the POR was registered under sections 9 and 51 of the WPA, 1972. The offence is non-bailable and punishable with a jail term of at least three years, which may extend to seven years,?and?a fine of at least Rs 25,000.

Representational image

“PETA India is grateful to the Deputy Conservator of Forests, North Goa Division, Shri Jiss Varkey IFS, for swiftly registering the POR and sending a clear message that mishandling animals will not be tolerated,” says PETA India Cruelty Response Coordinator Saloni Sakaria.

“We urge community members never to resort to violence in dealing with wildlife and to recruit the help of the forest department instead.” Saloni Sakaria said.