CBI takes up probe into rhino killings in Assam

GUWAHATI: The CBI has taken up investigation into the killings of rhinos in Assam, state Environment and Forest Minister Rockybul Hussain said on Sunday.

Union Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions has sent a communication in this regard to the state government yesterday, Hussain told media.

However, details of the number of cases taken up by the CBI and the time-frame for the investigation was yet to be known.

"We are awaiting further details. But we welcome the Centre's initiative," Hussain said.

"We had suggested that the CBI take up all cases up to three to five years old. However, as per their (CBI) proforma they take up investigation based on cases and FIRs filed," he said.

The minister said he had written to Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on September 27, 2012, for a CBI inquiry into the killings of rhinos and it was forwarded to the chief secretary the same day. The state home department had then contacted the union government in this regard.

The state government had in recent months come under intense criticism from Opposition parties and civil society over spurt in incidences of poaching of rhinos in Kaziranga National Park and other wildlife sanctuaries.

In January, the CID has taken over the investigation of seven cases related to poaching of rhinos.

Kaziranga National Park has witnessed incidences of poaching since last year. Last year 25 rhinos were killed in KNP, while this year since January 20 have been poached.

In Manas, two rhinos were poached this year and one was killed last year at Orang.