Global News - May 2008

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Indian state considers tougher laws to protect endangered rhinos

Tue 13 May 2008 14:15 UK — Asia,Elephants, Rhinos, Hippos

Officials from the Indian state of Assam are considering increasing the penalties faced by people caught poaching rhinos in a bid to stop the killing of the animals.

Recent reports suggested that the government in Assam was looking at increasing the number of wildlife guards employed in the state in an attempt to curb rhino poaching in the area.

Now, the Indian Telegraph has reported that lawmakers are considering amending the Wildlife Protection Act to increase the deterrents to poaching.

Officials are reportedly planning on increasing the maximum prison term from three to ten years and doubling the fines that poachers could face.

Chief minister Tarun Gogoi explained to the paper: "I have asked the forest department to submit a proposal on the amendments required to be made so that it can be passed in the Assembly as early as possible."

Forest minister Rockybul Hussain added: "We want to amend Section 51 of the act that will raise the minimum prison term to ten years from the existing three years and the minimum fine.

"After the amendment, a poacher will be tried by a court not below that of a sessions judge.

"We hope that following the amendment to the Wildlife Protection Act, the rise in incidents of poaching will also come down in Assam."

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