The Gujarat High Court recently rebuked the State's Forest Department and Western Railways authorities for their sluggish response in preventing accidental lion deaths at the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice Aniruddha Mayee expressed dismay over the delayed action, emphasizing the Forest Department's duty to safeguard sanctuary animals.
Addressing officials' apparent inaction, Chief Justice Agarwal stated, "You always need some interference from the court or some sword hanging over your head...This is not done and not acceptable at all."
Despite claims of ongoing repairs to railway track barricades, the bench criticized the Forest Department for only taking action after court intervention, stressing that authorities should proactively address issues without court directives.
The court was informed of a joint meeting between Railways and the Forest Department, where it was proposed to limit train speeds near forests and restrict nighttime train movement when lions are active.
Chief Justice Agarwal emphasized the right to life's extension to wildlife protection, highlighting the PIL's significance.
Expressing dissatisfaction over officials' responses, the bench questioned the absence of proactive measures and called for a thorough investigation into recent lion deaths. The court ordered personal affidavits from Forest and Railway officials regarding steps taken to address the issue.
The Chief Justice emphasized the need for a solution-oriented approach, likening lion protection to caring for one's children.
The court's directive underscores the urgency of addressing wildlife conservation, urging swift action to prevent further tragedies in the sanctuary.
Author: Anushka Taraniya
News Writer, MIT ADT University
