HYDERABAD: The Hyderabad forest division and police rescued an adult Rhesus macaque that was allegedly being held illegally and forced to perform in a moving circus.
Authorities launched the operation after a concerned citizen filed a complaint.
During the rescue, officials found the monkey chained. They immediately shifted the animal to PETA Hyderabad's shelter for medical care and rehabilitation.
The forest department conducted the operation with support from PETA India and local animal welfare activist Gayatri Sanguo. Meanwhile, officials have started the process of releasing the macaque into a suitable natural habitat after completing the required formalities.
NIMS Doctors Remove Spinal Tumour Using Minimally Invasive Technique
Use of monkeys in performances banned
According to
Moreover, the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, protects Rhesus macaques. As a result, individuals cannot keep or exhibit these animals without meeting legal requirements.
Registration mandatory under wildlife rules
Wildlife regulations require anyone keeping a protected animal in captivity to register it with the concerned wildlife authorities. They must complete the registration within six months of the Gazette notification or within 30 days of acquiring the animal.
Furthermore, keeping a Rhesus macaque without registration is a punishable offence. Offenders can face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to ₹1 lakh, or both.
Forest officials said they will take further action in accordance with wildlife laws.