Gujarat Man Arrested for Killing Lion Cub; Forest Officials Reveal History of Animal Cruelty

Junagadh, Gujarat – A 50-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the killing of a male lion cub whose carcass was discovered last week in the Dungar (South) range of Junagadh forest division. The accused, identified as Baavan Chavda, was taken into custody on Friday from Porbandar district.

The carcass of the cub, aged 7-8 months, was found on June 24 in Rabari Ness, a settlement near Junagadh city. Forest department officials acted swiftly based on intelligence and technical surveillance to apprehend the suspect.

In a statement issued on Friday, Deputy Conservator of Forests (Junagadh) Akshay Joshi said that during interrogation, Chavda admitted to killing the lion cub. The officials also noted a pattern of repeated violence against animals. “During the interrogation, it has emerged that the accused possesses a cruel mindset. He admitted to having killed the lion cub. He also admitted to have killed several dogs and snakes in the past. These facts show his persistent violent and insensitive approach towards wildlife and other animals,” Joshi said.

The forest department has registered a case under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which provides for stringent punishment for killing a lion—a species listed under Schedule I of the act, granting it the highest level of protection. Investigations are ongoing to determine if Chavda acted alone or was part of a larger network involved in wildlife crime.

The Asiatic lion, found only in Gujarat’s Gir forest and surrounding areas, is a vulnerable species. Incidents of poaching or accidental killings are rare but have raised concerns among conservationists. The forest department has urged the public to report any suspicious activity that may harm wildlife.

Chavda has been remanded to judicial custody and will face trial. The case highlights the need for continued vigilance and stricter enforcement of wildlife laws to protect endangered species.