Karnataka High Court Expresses Shock at Pilikula Zoo Conditions, Suggests Immediate Closure
The Karnataka High Court, during a hearing on Wednesday, expressed profound dismay upon viewing photographs of animals housed at the Pilikula Biological Park in Mangaluru. The court orally observed that the zoo might need to be shut down due to severe animal welfare violations.
Court's Strong Reaction to Distressing Images
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C M Poonacha was hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Bhuvan M., a member of the Bombay Natural History Society. Upon seeing a photograph of a sambar deer attached to the petition, the bench remarked, "If this is the state of the animals, you (state government) will have to close down the zoological park." This statement underscores the gravity of the situation as perceived by the judiciary.
Detailed Allegations of Neglect and Violations
Advocate Ashwin Joyston Kutinha, representing the petitioner, brought several alarming issues to the court's attention. The petition highlights multiple defects at the park, including:
- Poorly maintained enclosures that are rusted, fragmented, or inadequately secured, with some even covered with fishing nets.
- Violations of the minimum enclosure size requirements mandated by zoo regulations.
- A severe lack of proper veterinary care for the animals.
- Unhygienic conditions within enclosures, including exposure to contaminated water.
- Unauthorized acquisition and release of animals, contravening Central Zoo Authority guidelines.
Furthermore, the court was informed that the park is currently operating without a valid licence, as its recognition was only extended until December 1, 2025. Advocate Kutinha also alleged last week that information had been received regarding illegal wildlife trade involving scheduled animals, with Pilikula Biological Park suspected to be part of this network. The court permitted the advocate to place this material on record for further examination.
Historical Context and Lack of Action
The petition reveals that the park was transferred from the district authority to the Karnataka Forest Department in 2023, following a recommendation by the Central Zoo Authority after an inspection. Despite this transfer, no significant steps have been taken to improve the deplorable conditions. Additionally, the Central Zoo Authority has issued show-cause notices to the Pilikula park in both 2023 and 2025, indicating ongoing non-compliance with regulatory standards.
During the hearing, the counsel for the Union of India and the Central Zoo Authority submitted that the park authorities have filed an application to extend their recognition, which is currently under consideration. This suggests a bureaucratic delay in addressing the critical issues raised.
Legal Proceedings and Future Steps
Additional Government Advocate Niloufer Akbar requested two weeks to seek instructions and reply to the averments made in the petition, a request that was granted by the court. The petition seeks a direction to the Central Zoo Authority to take stringent actions against the Pilikula Development Authority under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and the Zoo Rules, 2009.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for February 5, where further developments in this case are expected to be discussed. This ongoing legal battle highlights the urgent need for accountability and reform in wildlife conservation efforts in Karnataka.
