In a major crackdown, the Pune Forest Department has arrested 11 individuals involved in the illegal storage and sale of peacock feathers, a violation of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Based on a tip-off, officials raided Narpatgiri Chowk in Somwar Peth on Thursday and caught several suspects red-handed while attempting to sell peacock feathers without legal permission. During interrogation, the accused revealed that a larger consignment was stored nearby at the Sant Gadgebaba Dharamshala colony.
Acting swiftly, forest officials searched the location and discovered a massive stockpile of approximately 400 to 500 kg of peacock feathers. All 11 accused, who are originally from Uttar Pradesh, were taken into custody.
The operation was led by Assistant Conservator of Forests Mangesh Tate and executed by Forest Range Officer (Roaming Team) Rishikesh Chavan, Forest Range Officer Bhamburda Manoj Barbole, and Forest Range Officer Suresh Varak, under the guidance of Conservator of Forests Ashish Thackeray and Deputy Conservator Mahadev Mohite.
The forest department officials have urged the public to refrain from buying or selling peacock feathers. "Peacocks are India’s national bird, and the trade of their feathers is illegal. Such practices not only endanger the species but also promote superstitions," stated a forest department official.
The department has appealed to citizens to report any suspicious activity related to wildlife to help protect the country’s natural heritage.
