Pune: Forest Dept Rescues Alexandrine Parakeets From Illegal Captivity In Aundh
Pune: Forest Dept Rescues Alexandrine Parakeets From Illegal Captivity In Aundh
In a joint operation, officials from the Pune Forest Department and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India rescued three Alexandrine parakeets from a residential apartment in Aundh, Pune. The rescue followed a complaint from a concerned citizen regarding the birds’ confinement in inadequate conditions.
Upon receiving the tipoff, forest department officials swiftly acted on June 28th, locating the birds in a society apartment where they were being unlawfully held. Alexandrine parakeets, protected under Schedule 2 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, cannot be kept in captivity without proper authorization.
The parakeets, seized during the operation, were immediately transferred to the RESQ Charitable Trust for a thorough health assessment and temporary rehabilitation. According to wildlife authorities, the birds will undergo necessary treatment and care at the trust until they are deemed fit for release back into their natural habitat.
“We have registered an offence against the individuals responsible for illegally keeping these parakeets,” stated Deepak Pawar, Assistant Conservator of Forests, Pune Forest Department. “Legal proceedings are underway to ensure accountability for their actions.”
Expressing gratitude for the prompt action taken, Sunayana Basu, PETA India Cruelty Response Coordinator, commended the efforts of the Maharashtra Forest Department in swiftly addressing the situation. “It’s crucial for the public to report instances of animal cruelty to appropriate authorities,” Basu emphasized, urging community involvement in safeguarding wildlife and preventing illegal wildlife trade.
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 prohibits the possession, sale, or trade of protected species like Alexandrine parakeets without a valid permit. Offenders face penalties including fines up to ₹1 lakh or imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
As the case progresses, authorities continue to advocate for the ethical treatment and conservation of wildlife, reinforcing the importance of adherence to legal provisions aimed at protecting endangered species across India.
