Udalguri: A disturbing video exposing the open sale of wild animal flesh, including Bengal monitor lizard, civet, and Indian fox, at the Puthimari (Kabir Ali) weekly market under Kalaigaon Police Station in Assam’s Udalguri district has once again highlighted the alarming collapse of wildlife protection mechanisms in the region.
Acting on inputs following the circulation of the video, Bhergaon Police apprehended five persons for allegedly killing an Indian fox and attempting to sell its flesh on Saturday.
A charred carcass of the fox was recovered from their possession, confirming the crime.
While the police acted swiftly, serious questions are being raised over the role, or rather the absence, of the Forest Department.
The Puthimari weekly market falls under the jurisdiction of the Dhansiri Forest Division, yet the illegal trade of wildlife appears to have flourished in full public view, unchecked and unchallenged.
Despite repeated complaints and now clear visual evidence of organized wildlife trafficking in an open market, the Forest Department has failed to conduct regular monitoring, raids, or preventive action.
The trade of protected species, many listed under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, has reportedly continued for years, suggesting either gross negligence or a willful turning of a blind eye.
Conservationists and local residents have questioned how such activities could persist without the knowledge of forest officials. “This is not happening in some remote forest corner. It’s a weekly market. Everyone knows, except apparently the Forest Department,” said a local conservationist.
