Maharashtra's Bold Move: Legal Shift in Leopard Protection

Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik announced the state's approval to reclassify leopards under Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act. This change, pending central approval, allows killing leopards entering human areas without legal repercussions. Enhanced measures include sterilization programs, rescue operations, and transferring leopards to zoos.

Maharashtra's government has taken a significant step by moving leopards to Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act, allowing people to kill these big cats without facing legal actions if they pose threats in human habitats. This decision was confirmed by Forest Minister Ganesh Naik in the assembly.

The decision was prompted by rising incidents of leopards wandering into populated areas. Naik outlined that the proposed reclassification awaits the Centre's endorsement. Until then, the state has been proactive, with patrols and expanded rescue centers addressing the human-leopard conflicts.

Additional initiatives include sterilization efforts, with central approval for a pilot to capture and sterilize five female leopards. The state plans to transfer leopards to other states' zoos, following permissions. Moreover, schools in affected areas are advised to operate on flexible schedules.