Editorial
Law for saving wildlife
It will be as good as its implementation
It is welcome news that a new law is on the table to protect country's wildlife. A bill, called wildlife (conservation) bill 2011, placed in parliament has proposed two to seven years imprisonment and fine of take one to ten lakh for killing a tiger or an elephant. A second time offence will raise the penalty as high as taka 12 lakh with a fine up to taka 15 lakh.
The bill has it that any forest land can be declared by the government as an eco-park, safari park, botanical garden or wildlife breeding centre. It also says, nobody will be allowed to build mills or factories or engage in agriculture in areas declared by the government as forest land or water body. Besides, there are provisions of penalty and fine for trading in wildlife. While the bill is appreciated, we would like to have a clearly designated authority to implement the law when it comes into force.
The wanton capture and killings of animals and birds have become a common practice by gang of traders in connivance with corrupt forest officials and guards, local influentials and some members of the local law enforcing agencies. They smuggle out hides, bones and body parts of these animals. They also vend rare species of birds in the markets and on road sides. A lot more trading goes on in black market.
The reckless business has reduced the size of wildlife to an alarming low. Various species of animals and birds have vanished over the years. Many more face extinction. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has identified eight kinds of amphibians, 58 reptiles, 41 species of birds and 40 species of mammals as endangered.
It is for the government to ensure that the law enforcers go all out to bust the crime network and bring the culprits to book. In addition, the authorities may also start up awareness campaign among the people. Wildlife cannot be left to the mercy of the bunch of criminals, because they are pitifully rare in Bangladesh.
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