Court Clears Accused in Mongoose Brush Wildlife Act Case

The Delhi High Court dismissed a complaint against Deepesh Gupta over possessing mongoose hair brushes at a school's biology lab, citing a lack of proof showing his responsibility in any violation of the Wildlife (Protection) Act. The court found he couldn't be held accountable as no evidence linked him to the banned items.

The Delhi High Court has dismissed charges against Deepesh Gupta related to the alleged possession of mongoose hair brushes in a school laboratory, citing insufficient evidence of his involvement.

Advocate Sumeet Verma argued that the complaint violated the mandatory provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act by targeting Gupta instead of the school or its society. The brushes were obtained before mongooses were deemed a protected species in 2002.

Despite the acquisition predating the legal ban, the school failed to declare the brushes. However, the absence of evidence indicating Gupta's role in the administration or procurement of these items led to the quashing of the case against him.

(With inputs from agencies.)