Delhi: Police, forest department rescue 1,000 birds from Kabutar Market

Delhi: In a significant operation, the Delhi government’s forest department, in collaboration with the police, successfully rescued 1,000 birds, including several exotic species, from Kabutar Market in the national capital, according to PETA India on Friday.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India issued a statement revealing that the rescue operation followed their complaint to the forest department about two locked shops within the market, where numerous birds were being secretly held. The rescue operation involved birds like Alexandrine parakeets, finches, and other species.

PETA India also sought the assistance of former MP and animal rights advocate Maneka Gandhi in this matter.

Following the complaint, a joint team from Jama Masjid police station and the forest department conducted a raid on the identified shops and successfully recovered the birds.

The Delhi Police confirmed the raid, stating that an FIR had been filed against those involved, under the Wild Life (Protection) Act.

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“We have filed an FIR and initiated an investigation,” said a senior officer.

According to PETA India, the rescued birds have been sent for medical evaluation, treatment, and temporary rehabilitation. They will be released into the wild once they have fully recovered.

The Alexandrine parakeet is a protected species under Schedule II of the Wild Life (Protection) Act. The act prohibits the buying, selling, or possession of these birds, with penalties including fines up to Rs 1 lakh, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.

Furthermore, non-native endangered wildlife is safeguarded globally under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). (With inputs from PTI)