Target: Prem Kumar Jha, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) & Chief Wildlife Warden, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
Goal: Launch an urgent, humane response to the big-cat sightings and seek strict penalties for anyone who harasses, traps, or harms the animal.
Residents in Bhalumunda village say a large, cat-like animal has been roaming for several days, leaving families fearful to let children outside. Eyewitnesses have shared photos and videos and describe the creature as resembling a leopard or other big cat. Despite these community reports, authorities have dismissed the possibility that such an animal exists locally, intensifying confusion and anxiety.
When uncertainty meets fear, animals often become targets. Without clear guidance, a frightened public may chase, injure, or attempt to kill a wild animal, while the animal—stressed and displaced—may behave unpredictably. The situation demands rapid verification with camera traps and trained trackers, public safety advisories, and, if necessary, humane capture by qualified personnel—not denial, delay, or ad-hoc responses.
A coordinated plan can protect both people and wildlife: immediate field verification, night patrols, temporary movement restrictions near likely corridors, and transparent updates to residents. Prompt, science-based action can calm panic and prevent cruelty. Sign below to demand authorities commit to enforcing wildlife-protection laws and pursuing meaningful penalties against any individual who harms or attempts to harm the animal.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Mr. Jha,
Reports from Bhalumunda village indicate that a large, cat-like animal has been seen for several days, leaving residents fearful and uncertain. Locals say they have photos and videos of a big cat, while officials have denied the animal’s presence. In the absence of clear, coordinated action, both public safety and the animal’s welfare are at risk.
We respectfully urge your office to deploy a rapid-response team to verify these sightings using camera traps, spoor tracking, and field patrols; issue immediate public guidance to reduce risky encounters; and, if necessary, coordinate a humane capture by trained personnel. Transparent, frequent communication with the community can reduce panic and keep families safe.
Finally, please make it clear that wildlife-protection laws will be enforced. Anyone who harasses, injures, traps, or kills this animal should face appropriate legal consequences, including fines and prosecution. A swift, humane, and lawful approach will protect residents while preventing avoidable harm to wildlife.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Francesco Ungaro
