Controversy at Delhi Zoo Over Alleged Suffocation of Jackal

A controversy erupted at the National Zoological Park in Delhi amid allegations of a jackal's death due to suffocation during an extraction operation. The overseeing officer was removed, and a probe has been initiated. Zoo workers accused officials of using inhumane methods, prompting calls for an independent inquiry.

A controversy has emerged at the National Zoological Park in Delhi following allegations that a jackal perished from suffocation during an extraction operation. According to reports, the jackal was located inside a Himalayan black bear den when zoo staff supposedly used chili powder and fire to force the animal out, resulting in its death.

The officer responsible for overseeing the operation has been relieved of their duty over two ranges, as stated by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The charges for Range 1 and Range 2 have been assigned to alternate officials on an interim basis, pending an inquiry into the events.

The Delhi Zoo Director, Dr. Sanjeet Kumar, mentioned that there had been no immediate report of such an incident and stated that the number of jackals remained consistent with official records. However, the zoo workers' union has written to the ministry, demanding a court-monitored investigation due to concerns about the use of illegal and inhumane extraction methods.

(With inputs from agencies.)