Is hunting allowed in the wildlife sanctuary near Gwalior?

Detailed Legal Analysis

Hunting is strictly prohibited in wildlife sanctuaries in India, including those near Gwalior, under various laws aimed at protecting wildlife and their habitats.

The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, is the primary legislation governing the protection of wild animals and their habitats in India. According to this act:

• Section 9: This section prohibits the hunting of wild animals specified in Schedules I to IV of the Act. Violating this provision can lead to severe penalties.
• Section 11: It outlines the penalties for hunting protected animals, which can include imprisonment for up to three years and/or a fine.
• Section 18: This section empowers the state government to declare certain areas as wildlife sanctuaries, where hunting and capturing of wildlife are strictly regulated.

In the context of Gwalior, the nearby wildlife sanctuary is governed by these provisions. Specifically:

• The National Chambal Sanctuary, located near Gwalior, is a protected area aimed at conserving the riverine ecosystem and its wildlife, particularly the critically endangered Gharial and the river dolphin.
• Hunting, capturing, or any form of disturbance to wildlife within this sanctuary is illegal and punishable under the Wildlife Protection Act.
• Local laws and notifications issued by the Madhya Pradesh government may further reinforce these prohibitions within the state’s jurisdiction.

Additionally, the Indian Penal Code (IPC) can also come into play in cases of poaching or illegal hunting. Under:

• Section 428: It states that killing or maiming any animal of the value of ten rupees or upwards is an offense punishable with imprisonment.
• Section 429: This section deals with the killing or maiming of any animal, including those protected under wildlife laws, with harsher penalties.

In conclusion, hunting in wildlife sanctuaries near Gwalior is illegal and subject to strict penalties under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and other relevant provisions of Indian law. Individuals found engaging in such activities can face significant legal consequences.