Shiv Sena MLA Claims To Have Killed A Tiger In 1987, Displays Trophy Tooth On Neckwear

A member of the Shiv Sena, led by Eknath Shinde, has recently stirred controversy after a video surfaced on social media showing him claiming to have hunted a tiger 37 years ago and wearing its tooth around his neck.

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Sanjay Gaikwad, representing the Buldhana constituency in Maharashtra's Vidarbha region, made the assertion when questioned about the ornament during the video.

I hunted it in 1987: Sanjay Gaikwad

"This is a tiger tooth. In 1987, I had hunted it and removed it (the tooth), "Gaikwad, who is known for his impromptu comments, stated.

The conversation seems to have been recorded on Shiv Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, which falls on Monday.

It was also posted online by Saamana, the mouthpiece of Sena's rival Uddhav Thackeray faction, on social media.

1987 ?? ?? ?????? ????? ????. ?? ??? ?????? ?????? ???"????? ???? ??????? ????? ???????????? ??????????? ????????? ?????#Sanjaygaikwad #Viralvideo #Saamanaonline pic.twitter.com/ssn4u0izdp

¡ª Saamana (@SaamanaOnline) February 22, 2024

Ban on tiger hunting in India

Tiger hunting had already been outlawed in India well before 1987, as it was officially banned after the enforcement of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Tigers are categorised as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, and the Indian Tiger is classified under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. This legislation provides protection against hunting, poaching, and trade of tiger skins, bones, and body parts.

Perpetrators of these crimes are subject to imprisonment for three to seven years and fines ranging from fifty thousand rupees to two lakh rupees for a first offense.

Repeat offenders face even harsher penalties, including a minimum of seven years' imprisonment and fines ranging from five lakh rupees to fifty lakh rupees.

Such strict enforcement measures underscore the commitment to preserving this majestic species for future generations.

Recent census data from 2022 reveals a significant increase in the tiger population in India. With the latest count standing at 3,682 tigers, there has been a remarkable rise from 2,967 tigers recorded in 2018, marking a nearly 24% increase over four years.

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