229 big cats died in Madhya Pradesh in 5 years

As many as 229 big cats – 209 leopards and 120 tigers died in five years in Madhya Pradesh.

This came to light when Madhya Pradesh Forest Minister Vijay Shah presented the shocking details of deaths of leopards and tigers in the Assembly on Thursday.

The minister’s reply comes following the question of Congress MLA and former minister Jitu Patwari about the deaths of big cats.

Vijay Shah said that Tiger Reserve, National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary have been established for the protection of other wild animals.

Patrolling is done in the forest area on foot, elephants and vehicles, while suspicious persons are monitored for the safety of big cats. Besides, joint inspection of power lines, checking in haats, monitoring of water sources, etc. are done from time to time, he said.

In the past, tigers and leopards have died due to hunting, infighting, electrocution or disease, said Shah adding that criminal elements have been found to be responsible for the deaths in come cases. Action has been taken against them, the minister said.