(IN): Centre planning legislation for speedy conviction of poachers

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*http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/008200907131251.htm*

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Centre planning legislation for speedy conviction of poachers

 

New Delhi (PTI): Alarmed at the growing wildlife crime taking a toll on the

country's fauna, the Centre is planning to bring in a legislation for speedy

conviction of poachers.

 

" We are aware of the serious threat to wildlife by poachers. We will come up

with a legislation soon (for speedy and effective trial) to bring poachers

like Sansarchand to justice, " Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh told PTI.

 

" I met (the Supreme Court's) amicus curae (on environment) Harish Salve and

he had some very good ideas on how we can strengthen the act, " he said.

 

Sources said that the Minister will soon hold a meeting with the officials

from Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) for their suggestions in this

direction.

 

" The meeting is likely to focus on how to strengthen the cell and if it can

be empowered with technical surveillance to develop intelligence for

tracking animal trafficking rings, " the sources added.

 

While welcoming the move, wildlife experts called for a cautious approach

while amending the present Wildlife Protection Act or bringing in a new

legislation.

 

" One has to ensure that the state governments abides by the law in a right

spirit. And unless we have dedicated courts and lawyers with officials

having adequate legal knowledge all efforts to amend the law will remain

futile, " PK Sen, former director of National Tiger Conservation Authority

said.

 

For the last 20 years we have been demanding fast track courts for wildlife

crimes but it has not been taken note of even as the demand for rare species

is on an increase, the wildlife expert added.

 

Mr. Sen also stressed on a need to revamp the entire system with a focus on

the frontline staff who are an important link in the protection chain but

remain ignored.

 

Advocate Saurabh Sharma said strengthening the Wildlife Protection Act is

what we need as presently the law has failed to deter the criminals even as

several species are being mercilessly poached.

 

The legal consultant with the Wildlife Trust of India said unfortunately

most cases of wildlife crime end in acquittal either because the procedures

are not followed meticulously or the documents are riddled with loopholes

that are exploited by the defense counsel.

 

Referring the cases to session trial like in narcotics matter and punishment

based on the quantum of seizure are some of the measures he feels will help

curb smuggling.

 

" Presently those caught with several tiger skins or bone parts get similar

punishment as those arrested with one tiger skin or a bone, " he pointed out.

 

Also carrying traps should also be made an offence while stringent laws

should be ensured for traders who are the real culprit and raise demand for

endangered species.

 

 

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