UKHRUL, NOVEMBER 14: The District Magistrate of Noney, Sharath Chandra Arroju, has ordered the Divisional Forest Officer, Noney to enquire into the viral video of some miscreants hunting down Amur Falcons.
The video which went viral on social media platforms purportedly showed some miscreants involved in the killing of the migratory birds allegedly for consumption.
Amur Falcon is a protected species and any harm caused to it constitutes a punishable offence under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
On November 10, the district magistrate had issued a prohibitory order prohibiting hunting/killing of the Amur Falcons for any purpose.
The Divisional Forest Officer, Noney has been directed to enquire into the matter urgently and verify the authenticity of the video as well as the location of the incident.
Also Read | Noney District Imposes Total Ban on Hunting Amur Falcons; Air Guns to Be Deposited by Nov 15
The district magistrate also asked the divisional forest officer to identify the persons involved, ascertain the extent of violation, and take necessary action as per law. The Divisional Forest Officer, Noney has been directed to submit the detailed report on the action being taken at the earliest.
Thousands of Amur falcons, locally known as Akhuaipuina/Tamuanpui, flock to Tamenglong district, Manipur typically between October and November during their journey from Siberia to Southern Africa.
The Forest Department, Manipur in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India had on November 12 tagged three Amur Falcons – Apapang, Alang and Ahu – with radio transmitters at Chiuluan, one of the most important roosting sites for the winged guests in Tamenglong district, Manipur. The three tagged birds have reportedly left Chiuluan roosting site.
Also Read | Winged Visitors Return: Amur Falcons Begin Arriving in Manipur’s Tamenglong