Translocated Cheetah’s death: SC points out, “40 percent deaths occurring in less than a year does not paint a good picture”

Today, the Supreme Court (SC) of India heard an application filed by an expert committee that was created to guide the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) in association with India’s ambitious cheetah reintroduction program. A three-judge bench heard the matter including Justice JB Pardiwala, Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra, and Justice BR Gavai, and adjourned the case till 1 August. In an application moved by the expert committee, it urged the SC to order NTCA to keep them informed regarding the latest developments as well as consider their submissions and advice related to the matter. While addressing the matter, the bench observed that not less than a week after the death of eight translocated cheetahs from the African Continent to Kuno National Park of Madhya Pradesh, the number of cheetah deaths painted a worrying picture of the state affairs. In this context, Justice Gavai said, “Two more deaths last week. Why is this becoming a prestige issue? Please take some positive steps. Also, why were they all put in one place instead of being spread? 40 percent deaths occurring in less than a year does not paint a good picture.” In response to this, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati stated that “The highest authorities have taken cognizance. This is a prestigious project for our country. We are making our best efforts. In terms of my instructions, [the deaths] were anticipated. Up to fifty percent deaths in first year on translocation is not a very alarming figure. Our status report contains all details. There are several considerations.”

In September 2022, twenty cheetahs were translocated from Namibia and South Africa to India with the motive to revive the cheetah population in India. From the day they were translocated, eight cheetahs including three cubs died at the Kuno National Park. The reasons identified for their death were various infections and fights among the cheetahs. During the court proceedings, the SC suggested, “Instead of having all of them in one place, why don't you consider moving them to different sites?” Justice Gavai also suggested the Centre to shift some of the cheetahs to Rajasthan. Suggesting this, Justice Gavai said, “One of the sanctuaries in Rajasthan is very famous for leopards. 200 kilometers from Udaipur, I believe. Sighting is very good there. Have one more sanctuary there for cheetahs, consider it as a positive bias.” ASG replied, “This aspect has also been examined at length by the experts. I will bring to your attention the steps taken in this respect and the steps proposed to be taken in the future. It is an unfortunate incident. The status report includes the steps that are being taken to address this. Several aspects have been examined.” 

Justice Pardiwala asked for the reason why there is an increase in deaths among translocated Cheetahs, “So what is the issue? They are not suited to our climate? They are shown as having had kidney or respiratory issues.” ASG Bhati submitted, “Detailed analysis of each death is being carried out and our status report will have all that. Then this court may decide what further directions are required.” Hearing the contentions, the bench adjourned the hearing till August 1, 2023.