11 lions found dead in Gir forest, Gujarat govt orders inquiry

carcasses of 11 lions were found in Gujarat's Gir forest, prompting state government to order an inquiry, officials said Thursday. All dead lions were found in Gir (east) division, mainly from Dalkhaniya range in last few days, an official said.

"We have found carcasses of 11 lions from Gir east forest range," said P Purushothama, Deputy Conservator of Forest, Gir (east). For administrative purpose, Gir forest has been divided in east and west parts.

A carcass of a lioness was found in a forest near Rajula of Amreli district Wednesday, while three more lions were found dead same day in Dalkhaniya range area in Gir forest, a senior official said.

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Carcasses of seven or lions were found in last few days, he said.

"We have collected viscera samples of dead animals and sent m to Junagadh Veterinary Hospital and are waiting for postmortem report," he added.

Additional chief secretary of Forest and Environment Department Dr Rajiv Kumar Gupta said state government has ordered an inquiry which would be conducted by principal chief conservator of forest (wildllife).

"Primary information shows that eight deaths have occurred due to infighting. For rest three, postmortem reports are awaited," Gupta added.

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PCCF wildlife A K Saxena, who rushed to Gir forest, told PTI that most of deaths are due to infighting and resultant injuries.

"Most of deaths are due to infighting and injuries caused reby, mainly affecting cubs and females. This trend is being ticed over a period of three to four years. foul play or suspicion is suspected," Saxena said.

As per 2015 census, Gir is home to 520 lions.

Rajya Sabha MP Parimal Nathwani said on Thursday that a probe must be conducted to see if deaths occurred due to electrocution, poisoning or poaching. 

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