Preliminary Offence Report Registered for Manhandling and Abusing a Marsh Crocodile in Bettiah, Following PETA India Complaint

Acting on a video depicting the manhandling and abuse of a marsh crocodile, a species protected under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act (WPA), 1972, PETA India collaborated with the Bettiah Forest Division of the Bihar Forest Department to ensure that a preliminary offence report (POR) was registered.

Based on the video evidence, the POR was registered against the accused under Sections 39, 43, 48 and 49 of the WPA, 1972. The offence is non-bailable and punishable with a jail term of at least three years, which may extend to seven years, and a fine of at least ₹25,000.

The incident reportedly occurred during Diwali in Bettiah, West Champaran district of Bihar. A disturbing video reveals a horrific incident in which a crocodile is tied with a rope to a bike and dragged by the accused in full view of the public, while the crowd cheers and applauds, causing tremendous pain and trauma to the crocodile.

PETA India is urging the Bettiah Forest Division to take immediate and appropriate steps to identify and apprehend those responsible for the blatant and heinous cruelty towards wildlife. The crocodile has been rescued and successfully released back into the natural habitat by the Bettiah Forest Division.