Viral video of children handling dolphin sparks concern

Patna: A viral video allegedly showing children pulling a live Gangetic dolphin out of a river and posing with it at Chapra, in Saran district, has raised concerns over the safety of the endangered aquatic species.As the footage circulated widely on social media, wildlife experts warned that such human interaction could seriously harm the dolphin, which is protected under Indian wildlife laws.Ravindra Kumar Sinha, popularly known as the ‘Dolphin Man of India’, said Gangetic dolphins are blind and depend on echolocation for navigation and survival.“Pollution and declining water levels already place these dolphins under stress. Human negligence further increases the risk to their lives,” he said.Gopal Sharma said even human touch can push the animal into severe stress that may prove fatal.“If a dolphin washes ashore, it should be released into water at least five feet deep without applying pressure on its belly or touching its snout,” he said.Sharma stressed the need for awareness campaigns in fishing villages, schools and colleges near riverbanks. He also criticised the Bihar govt for not fully addressing conservation needs, pointing out that the National Dolphin Research Centre in Patna remains non-functional even two years after inauguration.NDRC director Nesamani K said officials were verifying the authenticity and location of the video. He urged locals to immediately inform the forest department if a stranded dolphin is found.Despite the video going viral, authorities in Saran have not confirmed the dolphin’s condition.The incident also triggered criticism online. One social media user posted, “What looks ‘fun’ on camera is actually a sign of poor awareness and weak wildlife protection.” Another Faghir Bent Bashri posted, “Animals are not toys or props for videos.”