Target: Shri Mayank Chaturvedi, Collector & District Magistrate of Raigarh, Chhattisgarh
Goal: Order a swift investigation into the weeks-long entrapment and stoning of a Russell’s viper, pursue appropriate penalties under wildlife-protection laws, and mandate preventive safeguards and public education to stop such cruelty.
A Russell’s viper was discovered after roughly a month and a half trapped in a water tank, emaciated, dehydrated, and injured. Local accounts further state that during this ordeal the snake was pelted with stones, compounding its suffering. Rescuers treated the viper and later released the animal back to suitable habitat, but the cruelty and neglect described demand accountability.
Reports suggest the tank was unsecured and that the animal’s injuries were consistent with deliberate harm. Fear of venomous snakes can fuel panic, yet intentionally hurting a wild animal is still a criminal act. The prolonged confinement described here, coupled with the stoning, paints a disturbing picture of torment inflicted on a sentient being.
This case calls for decisive action: identify those responsible, apply appropriate penalties under the Wildlife Protection Act, and prevent a repeat. Simple safeguards—covering or fencing open tanks, rapid-response rescue coordination, and community awareness that snakes should never be harmed—can save lives. Sign below to ensure an immediate, thorough inquiry and lasting protective measures.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Collector Chaturvedi,
We are writing regarding a Russell’s viper that was trapped for approximately six weeks in an open water tank and was pelted with stones during that period. Rescuers found the animal dehydrated, injured, and in distress. They provided treatment and released the snake to an appropriate habitat. The combination of prolonged entrapment and deliberate cruelty is deeply troubling.
Because intentional cruelty against wildlife is involved, we respectfully urge your office to direct a prompt, comprehensive investigation in coordination with the Forest Department and local law enforcement. If individuals are identified, please pursue appropriate penalties under applicable wildlife-protection provisions. Where minors may be implicated, we further ask for mandated counseling, restorative education, and accountability measures for guardians.
To prevent future incidents, we also request district-wide safeguards: immediate covering or fencing of open tanks and similar hazards; a formal hotline and rapid-response protocol with trained snake-rescue volunteers; village-level outreach on safe, humane coexistence with snakes; and clear public guidance that stoning or otherwise harming wildlife is illegal and unacceptable.
Thank you for acting to ensure justice in this case and for implementing practical steps that protect both people and animals.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: CLPramod
