Dibrugarh: Carcasses of around 50 migratory birds were found in different parts of Assam’s Majuli district on Republic Day, triggering suspicion of mass poisoning.
It is suspected that the birds died after consuming poisonous substances.
According to reports, the carcasses were recovered from agricultural fields in the Kamargaon area and nearby localities.
“Among them, eight birds that survived the suspected poisoning are currently undergoing treatment at the Ratanpur Veterinary Hospital,” an official said.
Meanwhile, police have detained 17 persons for further interrogation in connection with the suspected poisoning of migratory birds.
“The birds had arrived in the fields in search of food when unidentified persons allegedly used pesticides and other chemical substances in the farmlands, resulting in the deaths. The incident was reported from the Dakshinpat Kumar Gaon, Sumoimari, Komargaon and Rawanagaon areas in Majuli,” the official added.
Environmentalists across Assam have expressed anger over the incident and demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible.
“Every year, after the arrival of the winter season, migratory birds come to Majuli in search of food. They stay here for months before returning. This time, even before November, the birds had arrived and were spotted in different areas. Yesterday, while we were busy with Republic Day celebrations, villagers informed us that someone had poisoned the migratory birds. We reached the spot and rescued some of the surviving birds for medical treatment,” a forest official said.
He added, “We suspect that the birds were poisoned. During our inquiry, we found the poisoned bait that was given to the birds. Seventeen persons, including four women, have been detained in connection with the case.”
“It is not the first incident of bird poisoning. Earlier too, birds have been poisoned to death. The forest department should take strict action and book all the culprits under the Wildlife Act,” said environmentalist Devojit Moran.
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