FIR registered in Indian monitor lizard hunting case, suspect absconds before forest team arrives

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Dharamshala, June 11

A case of illegal hunting of an Indian Monitor Lizard has come to light in the Narwana beat area under the Sera forest range, prompting the Forest Department to register an FIR under provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act.

According to officials, the accused fled before the department’s team could reach the spot. Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Dharamshala, Dr. Amit Sharma, said the suspect had been identified and a search of his residence led to the recovery of meat believed to be from an Indian Monitor Lizard.

“We identified the individual and conducted a search at his house, where meat of an Indian Monitor Lizard was recovered. Based on the evidence, an FIR has been registered,” Sharma said.

He stated that the Indian Monitor Lizard is listed under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, as amended in 2022, and enjoys the highest level of legal protection. The case has been registered under Sections 9 and 51 of the Act.

The accused is currently under surveillance, and efforts are underway to apprehend him. Officials said the offense carries a punishment of three to seven years’ imprisonment.

A video related to the incident has also surfaced on social media, allegedly showing a person holding the dead lizard. Forest officials said a team was dispatched to the location after receiving information, but the suspect had already escaped by the time they arrived.

The department is continuing its investigation and gathering evidence. Further legal action will be taken once the accused is arrested, officials added.