Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik informed the Legislative Council about the ongoing investigation into the wildlife poisoning incident in the Chaurakund forest range of the Melghat Tiger Reserve. Preventive measures are being implemented to prevent such incidents in the future. The discussion was initiated by member Milind Narvekar and involved active participation from other members.
Naik mentioned that the Forest Department is taking steps to address human-wildlife conflict. Measures include monitoring human movement in restricted forest zones using satellite surveillance, deploying forest guard patrol teams, and enhancing communication with local residents for intelligence gathering. The poisoning incident, which occurred on May 22 and 23, 2026, resulted in the deaths of several wild animals, including a pangolin, a barking deer, and a monkey in the Chaurakund forest area.
The Field Director of the Tiger Reserve conducted an inquiry into the incident, leading to the arrest of suspects. One suspect has confessed to the poisoning and implicated four others. While preliminary reports have confirmed poisoning, a detailed forensic report is awaited. Naik emphasized that strict action will be taken against the culprits upon receiving the detailed report. He also highlighted the role of international smuggling networks in wildlife poaching activities involving tigers and leopards.
To address future human-wildlife conflicts, the state government plans to develop sanctuaries, safari projects, and ensure the availability of natural prey for wild animals. The government aims to make the Forest Department more people-oriented and develop sanctuaries, leopard safaris, and tiger reserves in the Vidarbha region. Special measures will be taken to increase the availability of natural prey for wild animals, reducing their interactions with villages and agricultural fields.
