Two Arrested in Bargarh for Painting Lord Jagannath Image on Protected Turtle

Bargarh: Two youths were arrested by the Forest Department in Odisha’s Bargarh district for painting an image of Lord Jagannath on the shell of a protected turtle species, in violation of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The incident occurred in the Bijepur area, and the accused have been produced in court.

According to forest officials, the duo filmed a video of the turtle after painting the religious image and posted it as a reel on their Facebook account. The act drew public outrage and was soon flagged to wildlife authorities.

Subhendu Mallik, General Secretary of Snake Helpline, lodged a formal complaint, identifying the turtle as an Indian Flapshell Turtle, which is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act. In his complaint to the Chief Wildlife Warden of Odisha, Mallik demanded immediate legal action and the removal of the viral video from social media. The turtle was later seen being released into a waterbody.

Mallik also forwarded a copy of the complaint to the Additional Director of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau for further investigation.

As per the Wildlife Protection Act, any harm, misuse, or exploitation of Schedule I species is a serious offense, punishable by up to seven years of imprisonment, a fine of ₹1 lakh, or both.

Forest officials confirmed that the matter is under further investigation, and strict action will be taken in accordance with the law.