Tiger claw pendant row: Karnataka may give a chance to those possessing illegal wildlife products

Amidst the backdrop of the ongoing tiger claw pendant controversy, Karnataka's Forest, Wildlife and Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre held a crucial meeting with senior officials of the Forest Department to address the issue of illegal wildlife product possession.   

The primary objective of the meeting was to tackle the growing complaints regarding individuals wearing tiger claw lockets, many of whom seem to be unaware of the prevailing laws.

During a press conference held at his office in Vikas Soudha, Minister Khandre expressed his commitment to finding a solution to this issue. One of the measures under review is the possibility of providing a final opportunity for those in possession of illegal wildlife products to return them to the government without facing legal consequences.
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Minister Khandre highlighted the historical context, noting that until 2005, individuals were permitted to claim ownership of products made from wildlife organs passed down from their ancestors, subject to confirmation by the Forest Department. 

However, an important amendment was introduced in 2022. This amendment stipulates that any person can voluntarily surrender captive animals or animal products to the Chief Wildlife Warden. Importantly, no compensation will be offered to individuals who voluntarily surrender such items, as the surrendered items automatically become the property of the state government.

The meeting with senior Forest Department officials focused on the logistics of returning these illegal stocks to the government and the absence of compensation for those returning them. Minister Khandre stressed the need for a comprehensive discussion on these possibilities.