I, Bhuvan M, a committed wildlife conservationist, am compelled to draw attention to serious and persistent violations at the Pilikula Biological Park, Mangaluru, Dakshina Kannada. As a member of the prestigious Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and various other distinguished organizations dedicated to wildlife preservation, I have always strived to uphold the highest standards for the protection of our animals and ecosystems.

On October 31, 2024, I, along with Sri Ashwin Joyston Kutinha, Advocate at the High Court of Karnataka, conducted an independent survey of the Pilikula Biological Park. The findings of our investigation were deeply concerning and uncovered multiple violations of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009. These included:

  • Poorly maintained enclosures – Rusted, fragmented, and inadequately secured enclosures, failing to provide the necessary safety and welfare for the animals.
  • Unauthorized and hazardous enclosures – The use of fishing nets as barriers, creating significant risks for the animals.
  • Violation of minimum enclosure size standards – Insufficient space for various species, failing to meet the prescribed standards set by the Central Zoo Authority.
  • Negligence in veterinary care – The presence of sick and injured animals displayed without proper medical attention.
  • Unhygienic conditions – Contaminated water and unsanitary conditions that jeopardize the animals’ health.
  • Unauthorized acquisition and release of animals – Violation of Central Zoo Authority guidelines with unauthorized animal acquisitions and releases.

In an effort to gain more transparency and to hold those responsible accountable, I filed multiple Right to Information (RTI) applications. However, the information was deliberately delayed by the concerned authorities, clearly indicating an attempt to suppress the truth and prevent the public from learning about the deplorable conditions at the park.

Despite these efforts to delay transparency, I persisted with my work and submitted a consolidated representation on February 24, 2025, to the Central Zoo Authority, the Chief Wildlife Warden, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, with copies sent to the Commissioner of the Pilikula Development Authority.

As a result of this continued pressure, it is worth noting that many officials responsible for the mismanagement at the park have since resigned. This indicates the level of discomfort and acknowledgment of wrongdoing within the administration, even though no formal corrective actions have been taken to resolve the ongoing issues at the park.

In light of these facts, and having exhausted all avenues for administrative remedy, I have no other option but to approach the Hon’ble High Court of Karnataka. The petition seeks urgent intervention and calls for the following:

A writ of mandamus directing an independent and comprehensive inquiry into the management and conditions at Pilikula Biological Park.

Immediate action against the officials responsible for the violations of the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 and the Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009, as outlined in the show cause notice issued by the authorities.

A directive for the transfer of the management of the park from the current authorities to ensure that the well-being of the animals is prioritized, as per the orders issued by the Deputy Commissioner on June 7, 2023.

The animals at Pilikula Biological Park continue to suffer as a result of these failures, and the authorities must be held accountable. The information regarding these violations gathered through RTI and independent investigation, must be brought to light for the sake of animal welfare, transparency, and accountability.

I am confident that this petition will lead to the necessary action, prompt a thorough investigation, and ensure that justice is served for the animals who have long been neglected. It is time for the authorities to take responsibility and act in accordance with national wildlife protection laws.

Let us unite in our efforts to protect wildlife and ensure that justice is served for the voiceless animals of Pilikula Biological Park