40% of cheetah deaths in less than a year does not give a good picture, says SC
Representative photo: iStock. The Supreme Court, on July 20, 2023, urged the Centre to spread the remaining cheetahs to different locations to prevent further deaths.
A three-judge bench of judges BR Gavai, JB Paridwala and Prashant Kumar Mishra expressed concerns over cheetahs dying in such a short span. The apex court also raised concerns about the suitability of the environment where they are relocated.
The court recommended shifting the cheetahs to Rajasthan and asked the Centre to take steps instead of making it a prestige issue.
The central government brought 20 cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa as part of its Project Cheetah, aimed at reintroducing big cats in India. However, in the last four months, eight cheetahs, including three cubs born in India, died of various ailments in separate incidents. Of them, two deaths happened last week.
Also read: Eight months since Project Cheetah began, 3 of the animals are already dead
“Two more deaths last week. Why is this becoming a prestige issue? Please take some positive steps. Also, why were they all put in one place instead of being spread? 40 per cent of deaths occurring in less than a year does not paint a good picture," stated Gavai.
Gavai suggested Center to consider shifting the cheetahs to Jawai National Park in Rajasthan.
“One of the sanctuaries in Rajasthan (Jawai National Park) is very famous for leopards. 200 kilometres from Udaipur, I believe. Sighting is very good there. Have one more sanctuary there for cheetahs, consider it as a positive bias,” Gavai said.
Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati responded to this, saying the Centre is taking all necessary steps for the prestigious cheetah translocation project. Bhati stated that 50 per cent of deaths in the process was anticipated.
Seeking reasons for the cheetah deaths, Pardiwala asked whether these wild cats were not suited to our climate. "So what is the issue? Is our climate not suiting them? Kidney or respiratory issues?" Pardiwala asked.
The court asked the Centre to submit the updated status of the project along with suggestions in the next hearing scheduled for August 1.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.