File photo of an Indian rhino
Centre today said it may consider CBI inquiry into poaching of world-famous one-horned rhinos and other animals in Kaziranga National Park.
"CBI will be the right agency to find out who is involved in killing of rhinos and other animals in Kaziranga. Once I return to New Delhi, I will see what can be done in this regard," Union Environment and Forests Minister Prakash Javadekar told reporters in Kazaringa.
The Minister, who is on a two-day visit to Assam, expressed shock and anguish over repeated poaching of rhinos in KNP.
"I have taken the issues of rhino killing and illegal encroachment in the Park very seriously. It will not be allowed to continue. I will take up the matter with the Prime Minister as well as the Home Minister for speedy action," Mr Javadekar said.
He informed that random killing of the endangered rhino is on the rise since the value of its horn has risen almost four times in recent times in the international market.
"But any way we need to stop such a cruel act by poachers and find out if any third group behind the screen," he added.
Mr Javadekar also expressed surprise on reports of encroachment by illegal migrants in and around KNP.
"I am shocked to find that the Kaziranga National Park as well as other wildlife sanctuaries being encroached by illegal suspected migrants, which is a vote-bank game played by the previous government as well as the state government by destroying the natural beauty," he added.
After arriving in KNP, Mr Javadekar interacted with the local public, environmental organisations, forest guards and 'mahuts'.