Supreme Court Directive on Elephant Corridors
The Supreme Court has emphasized the need for unhindered elephant corridors across India, addressing issues of human-animal conflict and illegal obstructions. This directive aims to protect the natural migratory routes of wild elephants, ensuring their free passage across states without interference from human activities or constructed obstructions.
Key Directives and Observations
- Nationwide Survey:
- The Centre is tasked with conducting a comprehensive nationwide survey to map elephant corridors.
- Justice Joymalya Bagchi highlighted that elephant pathways are not restricted to specific states, emphasizing the need for a coordinated national effort.
- Obstruction Prohibition:
- Construction of obstacles or blockades in elephant corridors is prohibited, as reiterated by Chief Justice Surya Kant.
- No state can obstruct these natural pathways, even if crops are affected.
- Ban on Harmful Practices:
- The court directed an examination of continued use of fireballs, mashaals, and spikes against elephants, practices banned since 2018.
- Such practices are prevalent in states like West Bengal, where elephants travel from Nepal to Jharkhand and beyond.
Legal and Environmental Context
- Wildlife Protection:
- Elephants are classified as Schedule I animals under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, granting them significant legal protection.
- They are considered a vulnerable species requiring absolute legal protection.
Government's Response and Timeline
- Centre's Commitment:
- Additional Solicitor General agreed to the survey and sought three months for the task.
- The Supreme Court set a timeline of eight weeks for a progress report to be submitted.
Conclusion
This directive underscores the importance of state cooperation and adherence to wildlife protection norms to resolve human-animal conflicts while preserving India's rich biodiversity.
