Wildlife Crimes in Karnataka: Environmental and Legal Perspectives

Abstract

Wildlife has been a part and parcel of our ecosystem and as enshrined under Art. 51A(g) of the Indian Constitution, it is the fundamental duty of all citizens of India to protect and improve the same. The selfish and dominant behaviours of human beings have made wildlife to become extinct. Every day various crimes are taking place against wildlife such as killing, poaching, taking out protected plants, illegal trade etc., and the same are committed contrary to national and international legislation. The superstitious beliefs and the urge to make more money have made human beings kill wild animals and use their body parts for various purposes. Pangolin scales, deer horns, star tortoise, elephant tusks, skin, shells, etc., of different animals, are used illegally for different purposes.  India is rich in its flora and fauna, around 5.3 per cent of the geographical area is covered with wildlife protected areas. The Karnataka State alone is covered with around 41,590.16 sq. km of forests area and reports several cases of wildlife crimes every year. In this paper, the presenter focuses on the crimes happening against wild animals in the State of Karnataka, impact on the environment and the efforts and measures taken by the government and forest officials along with various laws to control the wildlife crimes in the Karnataka State.