Mumbai, July 7 (IANS) Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik on Tuesday informed the Legislative Council that an in-depth investigation is underway into the wildlife poisoning incident in the Chaurakund forest range under the Sipna Wildlife Division of the Melghat Tiger Reserve in Amravati district. Extensive preventive measures are being implemented to avoid such occurrences in the future.

The discussion was initiated through a calling-attention motion moved by member Milind Narvekar, with active participation from members Bachchu Kadu, Bhai Jagtap, Sunil Shinde, Sanjay Khodke, and Manisha Kayande.

Naik stated that the Forest Department is taking necessary actions and measures to mitigate human-wildlife conflict. Emphasis is being placed on tracking human movement in strictly restricted forest zones using satellite surveillance, deploying forest guard patrol teams, and improving communication with local citizens to gather intelligence.

The incident came to light on May 22 and 23, 2026, when several wild animals, including a pangolin, a barking deer, and a monkey, were found dead due to poisoning in the Chaurakund forest area of the Melghat Tiger Reserve. Due to the decomposition of some animal carcasses, initial challenges were faced in the investigation.

The Field Director of the Tiger Reserve visited the spot, ordered an inquiry, and suspects have been arrested, the minister said. In connection with this case, one suspect has been arrested who has confessed to the poisoning and has also revealed the involvement of four other individuals.

While preliminary reports have confirmed poisoning, the detailed forensic report is still awaited. Strict action will be taken against the culprits as soon as the detailed report is received, he noted.

Naik further pointed out that international smuggling networks are actively operational behind the poaching of tigers and leopards. To reduce future human-wildlife conflict, the state government will focus on developing sanctuaries and safari projects and on ensuring the availability of natural prey for wild animals.

Naik said that along with making the Forest Department’s functioning more people-oriented, the government plans to develop sanctuaries, leopard safaris across the state, and tiger reserves in the Vidarbha region. Special measures will be implemented to increase the availability of natural prey for wild animals, thereby deterring them from entering villages and agricultural fields.

–IANS

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