Topic: Conservation ;
7) There is lack of seriousness in prosecuting offenders under wildlife protection act. Discuss the reasons behind high acquittal rates in wildlife related crimes. (250 Words)
Why this question
A recent book titled “State of India’s Environment 2017: In Figures” by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) suggests that a worrying 52 per cent increase in poaching and wildlife crimes occurred between 2014 and 2016. The issue became highlighted when Salman Khan was convicted in blackbuck poaching case. The question is directly related to the GS-3 syllabus(under the following heading)- Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment, Disaster and disaster management.
Key demand of the question
The question wants us to deliberate upon the high acquittal rates in case of wildlife related crimes. We have to discuss in detail, why crimes under Wildlife Protection Act are not prosecuted seriously and have low conviction rates.
Directive word
Discuss – we have to explore in detail the reasons behind high acquittal and low conviction rates under wildlife protection act.
Structure of the answer
Introduction- you can introduce the answer with some statistics, for example from National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) or from the book “State of India’s Environment 2017: In Figures” by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE).
Body of the answer- the body of the answer should be divided into points. Each point should briefly describe the reason behind high acquittal rates in wildlife related crimes.
Conclusion – in conclusion briefly mention some plausible solutions that could be employed to rectify the above situation.
