A Forest Department officer at the Satpura Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh has been suspended for a viral video showing him feeding and petting a wild Sambar deer. Vinod Verma, the officer in question, was suspended immediately for his inappropriate behavior with the deer. The suspension order highlighted his actions as a violation of official conduct rules and reflected gross negligence.
The suspension order, issued by Field Director Rakesh Nanda, emphasized the officer’s inappropriate behavior with the wild animal. Verma, who was serving as In-charge Superintendent of the Bori range in the reserve, faced immediate suspension for his actions. The order cited his conduct as a breach of the Madhya Pradesh Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1965.
The controversy arose after a video, reportedly shared by Verma himself, depicted him feeding poha to a wild sambar deer in the Churna forest range. The officer was also seen touching and petting the animal, which he had apparently rescued earlier. Wildlife experts criticized this interaction, stating that such behavior goes against wildlife management principles.
Wildlife conservationists raised concerns over the officer’s actions, noting that unnecessary feeding and handling of wild animals can lead to dependency on humans. Habituated animals may lose their natural fear of humans, increasing the risk of conflicts and accidents. Wildlife activist Ajay Dube questioned whether the officer’s conduct warranted legal action under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Welcoming the suspension, wildlife activist Ajay Dubey praised the swift action taken against Verma. The suspension sends a strong message that negligence or violations of wildlife norms will not be tolerated among those responsible for protecting forests and wildlife. The officer’s suspension underscores the importance of upholding ethical standards in wildlife conservation efforts.
