''Death Of Lions In Gir Forest Extremely Serious Situation, Protect Them'' Says Supreme Court

The Supreme Court on Wednesday, October 3 expressed concern over the death of lions in Gir forest in Gujarat and urged the centre to protect them as it's extremely serious situation. 

A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur said, '' Lions must be protected. You (Government) must find out the reasons and do something to stop it.'' 

READ: 21 Asiatic Lions Dead In One Month In Gir Forest

In last one month, over 21 lions have died the in the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park due to various reasons. Hearing a plea relating a preservation of green forests across the country, the bench took into the note the media reports, which highlighted the death of lions in Gir forest in the Amreli district of Gujarat. 

''This is extremely serious. So many lions have died, '' the bench said while asking the centre to file a response on the issue. 

Additional Solicitor General ANS Nankarni, appearing for the Centre, sought time to file a reply. The Gujarat government also assured the court that necessary action will be taken on the death of the lions in Gir forest. The court granted one week time to the governments. 

READ: 11 Lions Found Dead In Gir Forest, Gujarat Govt Orders Inquiry

Earlier, Junagadh chief conservator (wildlife) Dushyant Vasavda said;

"The death cases are being looked into at the National Institute of Virology and Veterinary College, Junagadh. Scientists from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Uttar Pradesh, have been called to look into the matter. Moreover, the Gujarat government is making arrangements for required medicines and vaccinations from America."