Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) [India], August 18 (ANI): Wildlife SOS has strongly rejected allegations against the organisation to an alleged leopard poaching and wildlife trafficking network in Madhya Pradesh, asserting that it has "substantial proof" to counter the charges.
In a statement issued on August 17, Wildlife SOS vehemently denied the allegations against it and warned that treating legitimate anti-poaching intelligence work as wildlife crime could have a chilling effect on future wildlife enforcement.
The reaction comes after reports alleged that two wildlife-contraband suspects arrested by the Madhya Pradesh State Tiger Strike Force (STSF) in connection with the seizure of leopard skins had allegedly named Wildlife SOS CEO and Co-Founder Kartick Satyanarayan during questioning. The report further stated that investigators are also examining allegations that the NGO's anti-poaching operations were used to stage seizures and build its conservation profile.
"The attempt to vilify Wildlife SOS is just a total travesty of justice," said the NGO in its statement, adding that it has "records and substantial proof" that none of the allegations could hold up anywhere if a fair assessment could be made.
The statement further read, "Allegations have been flung with absolutely no basis onto the NGO, which works with the poorest of the forest dwellers. Wildlife SOS works alongside these dwellers because the animals mean as much to them as to nature lovers across the world. While the NGO is completely cooperating and willing for any kind of investigation, it has a track record of both ethical and publicly visible willingness to work within the changing guardrails of India's forest officialdom."
Additionally, CEO & Co-Founder of Wildlife SOS, Kartick Satyanarayan said, "This is shocking, and we are deeply concerned. Our immensely celebrated efforts over the years in rescuing and eventual banning of dancing bears in India are just one of the many stories that we are proud of. As torchbearers of India's wildlife and forest resources, we protect, we preserve, and we plan for the health and the welfare of creatures who are voiceless."
"The fight against wildlife crime is not an easy one, but we cannot allow the challenges along the way to weaken our resolve. We will continue to work alongside enforcement agencies, support the protection of wildlife and stand by those who dedicate themselves to this cause. Our commitment remains unwavering, and we will continue to keep the spirit of the forest alive," said Geeta Seshamani, Co-Founder and Secretary of the NGO-Wildlife SOS.
The NGO claimed that it has worked for more than 32 years across 19 states and assisted various forest departments in rescuing more than 5.31 lakh animals. (ANI)
Wildlife SOS rejects poaching nexus allegations, claims to have 'substantial proof' to counter charges
