Two Trafficked Monitor Lizards Rescued In Sangareddy, POR Registered, Following PETA India Complaint

After receiving information from a traveller about an injured monitor lizard reportedly being sold for meat along the highway in Sadashivpet, Sangareddy district, PETA India worked with the Sangareddy Forest Division of the Telangana Forest Department, particularly Shri M. Naveen Reddy, IFS, Deputy Conservator of Forests, to facilitate the rescue of two monitor lizards. Following several days of sustained surveillance and efforts to track down those involved, forest officials apprehended two individuals in possession of two monitor lizards and seized the reptiles who were being trafficked for meat.

Following the seizure, the Sangareddy Forest Division registered a Preliminary Offence Report (POR No. 1694/68) under Sections 9, 11, 12, 38J, 39, 40, 40A, 41, 42, 42A, 43, 48, 48A, 50, 51A, and 57 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act (WPA), 1972.

Offences involving species protected under Schedule I of the WPA are punishable with imprisonment of at least three years, which may extend to seven years, and a fine of at least ₹25,000. The offence is cognisable and non-bailable.

Monitor lizards, despite legal protections, endure severe cruelty. They are hunted for meat and their body parts, including because of false beliefs about their medicinal properties. If a monitor lizard is encountered, the public is advised not to harm or attempt to handle the animal, and to contact the forest department for assistance if needed.