Python burnt alive in Candolim, action sought

Panaji: The district society for prevention of cruelty to animals (DSPCA), North Goa, has lodged a complaint with Calangute police seeking registration of an FIR over the alleged burning alive of a protected Indian rock python in Candolim on Monday.

In its complaint dated March 31, DSPCA said it received video evidence purportedly showing an individual setting the snake on fire, leading to its death.

The Indian rock python is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, affording it the highest level of legal protection. Any harm, harassment, or killing of such species is a cognisable offence and attracts stringent penalties.

“The video clearly shows the individual placing the snake into a fire,” the complaint states, adding that relevant legal provisions, including Section 325 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, have been invoked.

DSPCA North Goa officer Darryl Finch urged police to register an FIR against the accused and initiate action under the Wildlife Protection Act and other applicable laws. The complaint was also marked to the deputy conservator of forests, North Goa.