[Solved] With reference to Indian laws about wildlife protection, consider the following statements: Wild animals are the sole property of the government. When a wild animal is declared protected, such animal is entitled for equal protection whether it is found in protected areas or outside. Apprehension of a protected wild animal becoming a danger to human life is sufficient ground for its capture or killing.

Q89) With reference to Indian laws about wildlife protection, consider the following statements:

1. Wild animals are the sole property of the government.
2. When a wild animal is declared protected, such animal is entitled for equal protection whether it is found in protected areas or outside.
3. Apprehension of a protected wild animal becoming a danger to human life is sufficient ground for its capture or killing.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 and 2
2. 2 only
3. 1 and 3
4. 3 only

Answer: 2

Explanation:

• Under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, wild animals are not considered the sole property of the government. However, the government holds regulatory authority over their protection, hunting, and conservation.
• Wild animals in protected areas are under government protection, but ownership is not explicitly defined as solely belonging to the government.
• The law governing the subject of wildlife, the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, does not discriminate between animals found in protected areas and outside.
• Statement 3 is not correct: Only if the wild animal becomes a danger to human life or is diseased or disabled beyond recovery can it be allowed to be captured or killed by the competent authority, the Chief Wildlife Warden of the State.
• Mere apprehension or fear that a wild animal could endanger human life is not a ground for capture or killing.