Did any animal go missing from Alipore Zoo?
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Synopsis
A recent report from the West Bengal Forest Department has dismissed claims of missing animals at Alipore Zoo, challenging earlier assertions from the Central Zoo Authority. This investigation reveals significant inaccuracies and brings clarity to the zoo's management, affirming its commitment to animal welfare and transparency.
Key Takeaways
- No animals have gone missing from Alipore Zoo, as per the forest department's report.
- The Central Zoo Authority's report contained inaccuracies.
- The investigation was prompted by claims from the organization 'Swazon'.
- Forest Department Minister Birbaha Hansda has reviewed the findings.
- Further actions will be taken to improve zoo management.
Kolkata, Sep 3 (NationPress) The preliminary investigation report by the West Bengal Forest Department confirms that not a single animal has gone 'missing' from the Alipore Zoological Garden in Kolkata. This statement contradicts claims made by the Central Zoo Authority, which erroneously reported that approximately 321 animals had disappeared from India's oldest zoological garden.
Following the Central Zoo Authority's claims, the state forest department initiated an investigation. The findings, submitted recently, indicate errors in the central authority's report. Birbaha Hansda, the Minister of the West Bengal Forest Department, has reviewed this initial investigation, as confirmed by a senior government official on Wednesday.
Sources within the forest department assert that Alipore Zoo provided accurate information to the central authorities, and the discrepancies stemmed from the central report itself, which the state was requested to amend but did not. This report has brought significant relief to the forest department.
A voluntary organization named 'Swazon' had approached the Calcutta High Court regarding these allegations. They claimed that while there were 672 animals reported in 2023-2024, this number dropped to 351 in 2024-2025, suggesting that approximately 321 animals had vanished.
Furthermore, the organization alleged that such disappearances have been occurring for three decades. They appealed to the High Court, requesting an investigation into various irregularities from the past decade. Following the director's transfer at Alipore Zoo, the Forest Department launched an internal inquiry.
A forest department official stated, "The investigation report is satisfactory because there is no evidence of any animal going missing from the zoo. Additionally, any transfer of animals to other zoos requires permission from the Zoo Authority of India. Hence, it is improbable to officially remove animals without authorization. Further actions from the forest department will precede the public release of this report."
The report also highlights various internal management issues at the zoo. The investigation committee has urged the forest department to monitor these situations and recommend improvements.
Point of View
The allegations against the Alipore Zoo highlighted critical issues regarding animal welfare and management. The West Bengal Forest Department's comprehensive investigation not only clears the zoo of wrongdoing but also emphasizes the importance of accurate reporting and accountability in wildlife management, reinforcing the commitment to uphold standards and transparency.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the West Bengal Forest Department report?
The West Bengal Forest Department reported that there were no missing animals from Alipore Zoo, contradicting earlier claims of 321 animals missing.
Who initiated the investigation into the missing animals?
The investigation was initiated by the West Bengal Forest Department following claims made by the Central Zoo Authority.
What organization raised concerns about the missing animals?
A voluntary organization named 'Swazon' raised concerns and approached the Calcutta High Court regarding the missing animals.
What was the reaction of the Forest Department to the allegations?
The Forest Department expressed relief at the findings of their investigation, which confirmed that no animals were missing.
What actions will follow the report's findings?
The Forest Department plans to take further steps to address internal management issues and will release the report publicly.
