In a disturbing incident highlighting the growing threats to wildlife, 25 monkeys were found poisoned and dumped near Kandayavala, close to Parvati Hills in the Bandipur region of Gundlupet taluk, Chamarajanagar district.
According to local reports, unidentified miscreants captured the monkeys, allegedly poisoned them, and stuffed their limp bodies into a large sack. The bag was then brought by vehicle to Kodasoge Road and abandoned by the roadside.
Early in the morning, residents passing by noticed suspicious movements inside the sack. Realizing animals were trapped, they rushed to open it. Tragically, 23 monkeys were already dead. However, two were still alive but severely dehydrated and weak. Locals immediately provided water, managing to revive the surviving animals.
The incident has sparked outrage among conservationists and animal welfare activists, who have demanded swift action against those responsible. Just weeks earlier, Chamarajanagar district reported the deaths of five tigers, raising serious questions about lapses in wildlife protection and enforcement.
Speaking to the media, residents expressed shock and sorrow over the cruelty. “We have never seen such a heartless act,” said one villager. “Monkeys are part of our ecosystem. To kill them like this is inhuman.”
Forest officials and police have launched an investigation to track down the culprits. Preliminary suspicion points to possible conflicts with farmers over crop damage, though authorities have not ruled out other motives.
The rescued monkeys are under observation and will be rehabilitated once stable.