Assam Arrests Three After Viral Video of Hornbill Killing Sparks Outrage
The Assam Forest Department, acting on a viral video, has arrested three individuals in connection with the alleged killing of a hornbill in the Digboi Forest Division of Tinsukia district. The arrests were made on Friday after an intensive investigation triggered by widespread public outrage over the footage.
The video, which spread rapidly on social media, purportedly shows people posing with the carcass of a hornbill. However, the Assam Forest Department has not independently verified the authenticity of the footage, and investigations are ongoing to confirm the details.
Assam Environment and Forest Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah confirmed the arrests on social media platform X, stating: 'It is to inform that, acting swiftly on the hornbill hunting incident that surfaced on social media, our Forest Department has arrested three accused persons under the Margherita East Range of Digboi Forest Division. Wildlife crimes will not be tolerated at any cost.'
Hornbills are protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which prohibits hunting, capturing, or killing of these birds. They play a crucial role in forest ecosystems by dispersing seeds and supporting natural regeneration. The forests of Digboi, Dehing Patkai, Margherita, and adjoining areas of Tinsukia district are home to species such as the Oriental Pied Hornbill and the Great Hornbill.
Despite legal protections, hornbills face serious threats from habitat loss and illegal hunting. Conservationists have repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of wildlife laws and community awareness programs to protect these birds.
The arrests come amid growing public concern over wildlife crimes in Assam. The state's forest department has stepped up patrols and monitoring in sensitive areas. Officials have urged citizens to report any suspicious activities related to wildlife crimes.
The case remains under investigation, and the arrested individuals are expected to be produced in court. Further details about their identities or specific charges have not been disclosed yet.
