In July last year Melghat tiger reserve (Maharashtra) officials were arrested a person (11 are still absconding) in connection with killing of a Gaur (Indian bison). After the trial a court in Amravati district had convicted the accused and sentenced him to 3 years rigorous imprisonment and ₹50,000 fine.
Court noted that "It needs to be noted that the present case is of hunting of a wild animal. It is a crime against the nature and natural wealth which has to be preserved at any cost. The offence is serious and the accused is not of young age who does not understand the consequences of his act. Even though he is illiterate, the gravity of killing a wild animal like Bison can be understood and he not only killed the said animal but ate it after cooking. Hence the accused cannot be shown any leniency.
However, considering age of the accused which is about fifty years and the fact that he could not say much in this regard, it would be just to give him minimum punishment provided under Wildlife (Protection) Act."
Court noted that "It needs to be noted that the present case is of hunting of a wild animal. It is a crime against the nature and natural wealth which has to be preserved at any cost. The offence is serious and the accused is not of young age who does not understand the consequences of his act. Even though he is illiterate, the gravity of killing a wild animal like Bison can be understood and he not only killed the said animal but ate it after cooking. Hence the accused cannot be shown any leniency.
However, considering age of the accused which is about fifty years and the fact that he could not say much in this regard, it would be just to give him minimum punishment provided under Wildlife (Protection) Act."
