Supreme Court expresses concern over death of cheetahs in MP’s Kuno National Park

The Supreme Court on Thursday asked the Center to take appropriate action in response to the deaths of cheetahs in Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park. However, the Supreme Court was informed by the Center that it is typical for 50% translocation deaths to occur.

Justices BR Gavai, JB Pardiwala and Prashant Kumar Mishra made these observations during a hearing on the issue of cheetah deaths.

The court questioned the Center as to why they were making a prestige issue out of the death of two cheetahs last week. The court also questioned the purpose of keeping cheetahs in one place. The court advised the Center to take several positive steps.

The government representative, Attorney General Aishwarya Bhati, told the judge that they are giving full attention and efforts to the project. She informed the court that 50% of translocation-related deaths are typical.

The court wanted to know if they were dealing with respiratory or kidney problems, or if the climate was suitable for them. The ASG said the deaths were caused by infections. The court mentioned that one of the sanctuaries in Rajasthan is known for its leopard population and advised the government to take this factor into consideration.