Has Kannada Actor Darshan Been Summoned for Illegal Possession of Bar-Headed Geese?

Synopsis
A local court has summoned Kannada actor Darshan and his wife regarding their alleged illegal possession of bar-headed geese. This incident follows a viral video and raises questions about wildlife protection laws and celebrity responsibility.
Key Takeaways
- Darshan and his wife are summoned for illegal possession of rare birds.
- The Forest Department is enforcing strict wildlife laws.
- Legal consequences could include up to three years in prison.
- The case underscores the importance of wildlife conservation.
- Public interest in the case is heightened due to Darshan's celebrity status.
Bengaluru, May 23 (NationPress) A local court in T. Narasipura has summoned Kannada actor Darshan and his wife Vijayalaxmi, requiring them to appear before the court regarding the illegal possession of four bar-headed geese at their farmhouse.
The bar-headed goose is a rare migratory bird, originally from the Middle East.
The court has mandated that Darshan, his wife, and their farmhouse manager appear in person on July 4.
Forest officials uncovered the presence of these prohibited birds at Darshan's farmhouse located in Kempaiahna Hundi near Mysuru.
In 2023, a viral video featuring Darshan with the birds prompted a raid at his farmhouse, resulting in the seizure of four bar-headed geese.
The Forest Department has accused Darshan of possessing these birds unlawfully.
A case has been initiated, and a charge sheet has been filed against Darshan and others.
There have also been reports concerning other incidents associated with the farmhouse, including the death of Darshan's manager Sridhar and the actor's visit to the site after receiving bail in the Renukaswamy murder case.
Previously, a video of Darshan interacting with the rare birds gained significant traction on social media. Authorities have noted that the actor acknowledged in an interview having bar-headed geese at his farmhouse and even showcased the caged birds to the interviewer.
The Forest Department has lodged a case under Sections 9, 39, and 51 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, as well as the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022. If found guilty, the accused could face a maximum of three years in prison.
During the raid, a range of imported foreign birds was also discovered. Darshan was requested to provide ownership certificates, as the law permits the possession of certain bird species with appropriate documentation.
The confiscated birds were presented before the Magistrate and were subsequently released into the wild.
Darshan, who is also involved in the murder case of his fan Renukaswamy, is recognized for his love for animals and birds. He is currently on conditional bail in the murder case, and the prosecution has contested the bail decision in the Supreme Court.