Experts Question Efficacy of Proposed Ban on Keeping Indian Birds as Pets in West Bengal
The West Bengal government’s plan to enforce a comprehensive ban on keeping all Indian species of birds as pets has raised questions among experts about the implementation of the proposed move. While the State Forest Minister, Jyotipriya Mallick, has initiated the process of imposing the ban, concerns remain about how strictly it will be followed and its effectiveness in curbing the illegal practice.
According to Mallick, Indian birds, whether wild or domesticated, cannot be kept at home, and strict action will be taken against anyone violating this order. However, experts are sceptical about the blanket ban and suggest that the focus should be on enforcing the ban on trading indigenous birds rather than imposing restrictions on pet ownership.
Atanu Raha, former West Bengal principal chief conservator of forests, questions the seriousness of the government’s implementation, as the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, already prohibits keeping certain Indian birds as pets. He emphasizes that the effectiveness of the ban will depend on how strictly the government enforces it and highlights that separate state laws may serve little purpose if they merely reiterate existing regulations.
The Galiff Street pet market in Kolkata, known for openly selling even endangered birds, has also come under scrutiny. Minister Mallick assures that no Indian birds will be allowed as pets, and those selling such birds will have to limit their activities to selling trees. Foreign birds can be bought for breeding purposes only, with no shows or exhibitions involving them allowed.
Sajal Ghosh, a BJP councillor organizing an international bird exhibition in Kolkata, expresses reservations about the government’s approach, suggesting that bird lovers may register their pets if asked. However, if the proposed law is implemented, he plans to challenge it in court as he owns only exotic birds.
Mallick further states that even keeping foreign birds at home will require a permit from the Forest Department, and a committee will be formed to monitor compliance with the ban on keeping Indian birds.
News Mania Desk / Agnibeena Ghosh 6th August 2023
