Guwahati, Jan 27: Around 50 migratory birds were found dead in different parts of Assam’s Majuli district on Republic Day, with authorities suspecting poisoning as the cause.
According to official sources, the carcasses were recovered from agricultural fields in the Kamargaon area and nearby localities. Eight birds suspected of poisoning are currently undergoing treatment at the Ratanpur Veterinary Hospital.
Police have detained 17 persons for questioning in connection with the incident.
“The birds had arrived in the fields in search of food when unidentified persons allegedly used pesticides and other chemical substances in the farmlands, leading to the deaths,” an official said. The incident has been reported from Dakshinpat Kumar Gaon, Sumoimari, Kamargaon, and Rawanagaon areas of Majuli.
Environmentalists across Assam have expressed outrage over the incident and demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible.
“Every year during the winter season, migratory birds arrive in Majuli in search of food, stay for a few months, and then return. This year, they arrived earlier, before November, and were spotted in several areas. On Republic Day, while celebrations were underway, villagers informed us that the birds had been poisoned,” a forest official said.
“We rushed to the spot and rescued the birds that were still alive for medical treatment. We strongly suspect poisoning, and during our inquiry, we found evidence of toxic substances used to lure the birds,” the official added.
Seventeen persons, including four women, have been detained so far in connection with the case, and further investigation is underway.
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