The major emphasis of the proposed amendments is on the organised illicit wildlife trade. The attempt is to increase the economic cost and risk of undertaking such trade. Such an effort would require increasing the financial penalties as well as conviction rates. “There is no strong financial disincentive that prevents poachers and smugglers from engaging in illicit wildlife trade, which in terms of value ranks only below illegal trade in arms and narcotics," the ministry's statement of objects and reasons states. Environment minister Jairam Ramesh has been of the view that those who violate wildlife protection laws should be treated at par with persons who violate foreign exchange laws.Â
In its current form the law has not been effective in dealing with wildlife crime and illicit trade especially those perpetrated by organised, international gangs of criminals who have a sophisticated network in India and abroad. The need for amendments to make punishment more stringent arises from the rather low rate of conviction since the act came into force. Read the full report here.
Source: Economic Times, New Delhi
