(Image source from: Leopard carcass paraded as trophy)

According to a report, two leopards had entered Pulwama district of Kashmir. The villagers threatened by the animals, started chasing them leading to suffocation and death of one animal. It is believed that the other one is still hiding in the village in an unknown place.

But the most disturbing part of this whole drama was the picture of carcass of leopard being passed on to the villagers as if it was a trophy. The most shocking thing was that while doing this dirty act, they were laughing, cheering each other. The villagers claimed that the animal was threat to them and precisely that was the reason for killing it.

Reports say that while this drama was on, no wildlife official came to the rescue of the poor animal.

"The act reveals the poor mindset of villagers. As the habitat has shrunk, the wild cat has no choice but to enter the village." said wildlife activist, Sonia Ghosh while speaking to a reporter.

"Wildlife people should have made some arrangements. Several years ago a bear was set on fire and people were seen celebrating. I don't see any positive sign of wildlife conservation. And like always, forest department officials fail to reach the venue, Ghosh said.

Another animal rights activist, Belinda Wright said, "Encroachment in habitat is the issue, that's why these wild cats are forced to venture out."

Though encroachment in habitat is an issue, but at the same time it is also the responsibility of wildlife official to protect these animals, as it can be seen here there were no officials present during this dirty act. What is your opinion?

-Smrutirekha