Investigation Underway After 18 Monkeys Shot in Chhattisgarh

In a tragic incident in Belgaon village, Chhattisgarh, approximately 18 monkeys were reportedly shot dead by hired laborers on August 28, prompting an investigation by the Forest Department. Local Panchayat leader Sitaram Verma accused the villagers of hiring hunters to protect crops from the monkeys, a claim that has sparked outrage over wildlife protection and human-animal conflict. While four carcasses have been recovered, the exact number of monkeys killed remains unconfirmed, as some bodies were partially consumed by stray dogs. Divisional Forest Officer Chandrashekhar Pardeshi confirmed that those responsible could face legal action under the Wildlife Protection Act, which includes potential imprisonment and fines. The investigation is ongoing, with multiple suspects being questioned, and the situation is complicated by cultural beliefs that traditionally discourage harming monkeys. This incident has raised significant concerns regarding conservation efforts and the treatment of wildlife in rural communities.