Authorities in Madhya Pradesh’s Shahdol district have arrested seven men for the electrocution of a tiger and a tigress, according to local forest officials. The incident underscores ongoing wildlife preservation challenges, highlighting the unintended consequences of traps meant for herbivores.
The carcasses of the tigers were discovered on Monday, with the autopsy confirming electrocution as the cause of death. Officials have ruled out poaching, noting that the big cats were caught in electric traps set in agricultural fields, two of which appear to be maintained by the arrested farmers.
The incident has amplified concerns over tiger conservation efforts, with allegations of administrative negligence being examined by the Madhya Pradesh High Court. Wildlife activist Ajay Dubey, who brought the issue to light, noted a worrying trend of tiger deaths, prompting further scrutiny from authorities and wildlife organizations.
(With inputs from agencies.)