Guwahati: Two individuals were arrested near Bangtijhora, an area adjoining Raimona National Park in Gosaiagaon, Kokrajhar district, on charges of deer poaching.
The accused, identified as Jaydev Bachki and Ganga Tudu, were apprehended following a tip-off from local sources.
According to reports, a deer had strayed into the village in search of food and was subsequently killed by the villagers.
The meat was then distributed among the locals, raising concerns about human-wildlife conflict in the region.
The forest department, acting on the information received, arrested the duo and recovered a portion of the deer meat.
Officials have launched an investigation to identify other individuals involved in the incident. The department has issued a stern warning to the locals, urging them not to harm wildlife that enters human habitats. They emphasized the importance of coexisting with nature and protecting the unique biodiversity of the area, which forms part of the transboundary Manas Tiger Reserve.
Raimona National Park, known for its rich wildlife, including golden langurs, elephants, and deer, is a crucial area for conservation efforts in Assam.
This incident underscores the challenges faced by authorities in balancing conservation with the livelihood concerns of communities residing near protected areas. Further actions are expected to prevent similar occurrences in the future.