The Punjab Wildlife (Protection, Preservation, Conservation and Management) (Amendment) Act, 2025
The Punjab Wildlife (Protection, Preservation, Conservation and Management) (Amendment) Act, 2025 was enacted to amend the Punjab Wildlife (Protection, Preservation, Conservation and Management) Act, 1974. Sections 2(ab), 2(ba), 2(bc), 2(bd), 2(be), 2(cccc), 2(ga), 2(ja), 2(mmmm), 2(ra), 2(tttt) are inserted which added new definitions like captive animals, chief wildlife ranger, first information report, investigation officer and whistle blower etc. New Sections 10-A, 10-B, 21(2), 22-A to 22-D, 30-A to 30-I, 44-B were inserted. Sections 2(m), 4, 20 [sub section 1 clause (a), sub section 2], 31, 32, 34, 35 and 36 are omitted. Sections 2(k), 2(v), 3, 5 sub sections (4,5,6,7), 10, 21 in sub section 1 clause (i)&(ii) and 38 sub section 3 were substituted.
Through these amendments the wildlife department is made an autonomous body in terms of powers of conducting raids and lodging an FIR on a person who has committed offence under wildlife laws. The institution of wildlife rangers is introduced having powers to take cognizance of specific offences. The mechanism of whistle blower disclosure is introduced and establishment of wildlife protection centers are provided. The procedure to be followed after arrest is prescribed.
Also Read:
