Probe Initiated Against Pune Jeweller For Allegedly Selling Elephant Hair Accessories
Probe Initiated Against Pune Jeweller For Allegedly Selling Elephant Hair Accessories
Pune: Local police authorities have launched an investigation into a jewellery store in Pune accused of selling accessories containing elephant hair, a practice that is illegal under India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. This probe followed a complaint lodged on November 3 by Aditya Paranjape, honorary wildlife warden for Pune, who reported the sale of elephant hair rings, bracelets, and other jewellery promoted to attract good fortune and wealth.
Elephants are classified as Schedule-1 animals under the Act, which strictly prohibits the trade of any body parts, including hair, Paranjape explained. Acting on a tip-off, Paranjape visited the Sadashiv Peth jewellery store, where he obtained an elephant hair ring and other items as evidence.
When questioned, store owners claimed they were unaware that selling elephant hair items was illegal. Paranjape immediately notified the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau. Vishrambaug Police Station is carrying out an investigation in the case.
