Majuli Migratory Bird Poisoning Case: 17 Detained, Main Accused Arrested
In a shocking environmental crime on Republic Day, Majuli Police detained 17 individuals, including four women, after more than 50 migratory birds were found dead on the world's largest river island. Officials suspect deliberate poisoning in this protected habitat that attracts thousands of migratory birds annually from November.
Arrest and Investigation Details
After hours of intensive questioning, the primary accused, Kalim Uddin from Barpeta district, was arrested on Tuesday morning. The remaining 16 detainees were released temporarily but will be called again as the investigation progresses. Forest officials revealed that duck feathers and pesticides like Furadon were recovered from those detained, pointing to clear evidence of foul play.
Discovery and Rescue Operation
The grim discovery was made when bird carcasses were found scattered across agricultural fields in the Kumar Gaon area. This prompted an immediate police operation led by Majuli Additional SP (Headquarters) Rajashree Dhandia. During the operation, eight birds found alive but writhing in distress were rescued and promptly shifted to Ratanpur Veterinary Hospital for urgent medical treatment.
Targeted Poisoning in Farmlands
Forest department officials confirmed that the birds were targeted while foraging in farmlands across multiple locations including Dakhinpat Kumar Gaon, Sumoi Mari, and Rawanagaon. Investigators suspect that pesticides were deliberately laced into fields and wetlands, with ducks believed to be the primary target, allegedly for consumption or illegal sale in local markets.
Operational Challenges and Response
The investigation faces significant challenges due to:
- Difficult terrain with marshy land and absence of boat facilities
- Dense fog conditions that delayed initial inspections
- Swampy terrain complicating efforts to pinpoint poison placement
- Pesticides believed concealed deep inside fields or wetlands
Despite these obstacles, teams have been maintaining vigil since early Monday with support from personnel of the Bongaon police outpost. Patrolling and monitoring have been intensified in vulnerable areas to prevent further incidents.
Historical Context and Ongoing Probe
This is not an isolated incident for Majuli, which has reported similar poisoning cases in recent years. The forest department emphasized that their probe is ongoing and comprehensive, while also making a public appeal to residents to report any suspicious activity related to wildlife or environmental crimes.
The department highlighted the ecological importance of Majuli as a protected habitat and the need for heightened awareness about migratory bird conservation. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges in protecting vulnerable wildlife populations in remote areas of Assam.
