Reported by Manoj Kumar Ojha
Doomdooma: A purported video showing the killing of a hornbill in the Inthem area under the Digboi Forest Division in Assam’s Tinsukia district has drawn attention, prompting the Assam Forest Department to begin an investigation.
The video, which has been circulated on social media, allegedly shows an individual posing with the dead bird.
However, the authenticity of the video could not be independently verified.
Conservationist Devajit Moran condemned the incident and urged the Forest Department and the district administration to identify those involved and take legal action.
“The killing of such a rare bird is not only an attack on wildlife but also on Assam’s priceless natural heritage. Exemplary punishment is essential to deter such crimes,” he said.
According to sources, the Assam Forest Department has started an investigation into the viral video. Officials have not confirmed any arrests, recoveries or the identity of the person allegedly involved.
Authorities are examining the footage and collecting evidence before taking further legal action.
Hornbills play an important role in forest ecosystems by dispersing seeds.
The forests of Digboi, Dehing-Patkai, Margherita and adjoining areas in Tinsukia district are home to species such as the Oriental Pied Hornbill and the Great Hornbill.
Across Assam, hornbills are found mainly in protected forests and evergreen habitats. They are protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, although habitat loss and hunting continue to pose challenges to their survival.
The incident has led to renewed calls from conservationists for stricter enforcement against wildlife crimes.
They also appealed to the public to report wildlife offences to the authorities instead of sharing or promoting such incidents on social media.