Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, told the Legislative Council that a thorough investigation is underway into the wildlife poisoning incident at the Chaurakund forest range within the Sipna Wildlife Division of Melghat Tiger Reserve in Amravati district. The minister assured lawmakers that wide-ranging preventive measures are being rolled out to prevent a recurrence.

What Happened at Chaurakund

The incident surfaced on 22 and 23 May 2026, when multiple wild animals — including a pangolin, a barking deer, and a monkey — were found dead due to suspected poisoning inside the Chaurakund forest area. Decomposition of some carcasses posed early challenges for investigators. The Field Director of the Tiger Reserve visited the site, ordered a formal inquiry, and arrests followed.

According to the minister, one suspect has been arrested and has confessed to administering the poison. The arrested individual has also reportedly named four other persons allegedly involved in the act. Preliminary reports have confirmed poisoning; however, the detailed forensic report is still awaited. Strict action will be taken against all culprits once the final forensic findings are received, Naik said.

Legislative Attention and the Debate

The discussion was initiated through a calling-attention motion moved by council member Milind Narvekar. Members Bachchu Kadu, Bhai Jagtap, Sunil Shinde, Sanjay Khodke, and Manisha Kayande actively participated in the debate, reflecting cross-party concern over wildlife protection in the Melghat region.

Surveillance and Anti-Poaching Measures

The Forest Department is implementing a multi-pronged approach to curb human-wildlife conflict and prevent future incidents. Measures include satellite surveillance to track human movement in strictly restricted forest zones, deployment of forest guard patrol teams, and improved communication with local communities to build intelligence networks on the ground.

Naik also flagged that international smuggling networks are reportedly active behind the poaching of tigers and leopards in the region — underscoring that this is not an isolated local incident but part of a wider organised crime challenge.

Long-Term Conservation Plan

Beyond immediate enforcement, the state government has outlined a longer-term strategy. Plans include developing sanctuaries and safari projects — including leopard safaris across Maharashtra and new tiger reserves in the Vidarbha region — while increasing the availability of natural prey within forest ecosystems. The intent, Naik said, is to reduce the pressure on wildlife to venture into villages and agricultural fields, thereby easing human-wildlife conflict at its root.

As the forensic investigation continues, all eyes remain on the detailed laboratory report that will determine the final charges against those arrested and potentially implicated.