400–500 Kg of Peacock Feathers Seized in Pune; 11 Uttar Pradesh Residents Arrested

Reported by Kajal Bhukan
Pune, 4th July 2025: In a major crackdown on illegal wildlife trade, the Pune Forest Department seized approximately 400 to 500 kilograms of peacock feathers and arrested 11 individuals allegedly involved in the smuggling operation. The action followed a tip-off about illegal activity near the Dagdusheth Ganpati Mandir area in Pune.

Acting swiftly on the information, a team led by Forest Department officers Manoj Barbole and Chavan conducted a raid and detained the suspects. The seized feathers were transported to the department’s office on Senapati Bapat Road for documentation and storage.

Speaking to Punekar News, forest officials confirmed that all 11 accused are residents of Uttar Pradesh and were allegedly part of a broader network engaged in the illegal trade of peacock feathers. The case is being investigated under the supervision of Assistant Conservator of Forests Mangesh Tate.

The accused have been booked under provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which strictly prohibits the hunting, trading, or possession of peacocks and their body parts, including feathers.

“This is a case of large-scale illegal trade,” said Manoj Barbole, a forest official. “Peacock feathers are often used in religious rituals, decorative art, and superstitious practices. However, many people are unaware that even buying or selling these feathers is illegal under Indian wildlife law.”

While peacocks do shed feathers naturally, officials pointed out that illegal traders often harm or kill the birds to collect feathers in bulk, making the trade both unethical and dangerous for the species. This demand has contributed to the endangerment of the peacock population in some parts of the country.

The department has issued a strong appeal to the public, urging them to refrain from engaging in the buying or selling of peacock feathers. “It is a punishable offence under the Wildlife Protection Act,” said one officer. “Even if done for spiritual or decorative purposes, such practices violate the law and harm our national bird.”

Citizens have been encouraged to stay alert and report any suspicious activity involving wildlife products. “Every citizen has a role to play in wildlife conservation,” Chavan Stated. “If anyone comes across illegal trade or possession of peacock feathers or other protected animal parts, they should immediately report it to the nearest forest office or wildlife helpline.”

The 11 individuals arrested are currently in custody, and further investigation is underway to uncover additional links in the smuggling chain and determine the full scale of the operation.

This seizure is one of the most significant wildlife enforcement actions in Pune in recent times and highlights the growing concern over wildlife crimes even in urban areas. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to take strict action against such offences and to continue monitoring suspicious activity closely.