Vikram Embroiled in Lar Gibbon Controversy: A Probe into the Incident
In a shocking turn of events, popular Tamil film actor Vikram has found himself at the center of a controversy surrounding a lar gibbon. The video of the gibbon, which has since gone viral on social media, shows the animal running around a private property before sitting on Vikram’s lap and playing with his hair. The actor was seen smiling as he filmed the interaction.
The Lar Gibbon: A Protected Species
The lar gibbon, scientifically known as Hylobates lar, is a protected species under international law. It is listed under Appendix I of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), which prohibits the trade of endangered species. In India, the lar gibbon is also classified as a Schedule IV animal under the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022, making its possession and trade a serious offense.
Chennai Wildlife Warden to Investigate
In response to the controversy, Chennai wildlife warden Kulal Yogesh Vilas has announced that a forest ranger will be sent to the location to investigate the matter. The wildlife warden is expected to verify the animal’s source, how it was procured, and whether the possessor has the necessary documents to possess the gibbon. The investigation is likely to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the gibbon’s presence in the private property.
A Juvenile Gibbon at the Center of the Controversy
The lar gibbon in question is believed to be around two to three years old. Wildlife activists have raised concerns that the juvenile gibbon may have been trafficked from Southeast Asia, where its parents could have been killed before the animal was smuggled. This raises serious questions about the gibbon’s welfare and the potential consequences of its possession.
A Warning from Wildlife Activists
Wildlife activist and Tamil Nadu State Board for Wildlife member Shravan Krishnan has described the incident as unfortunate. Krishnan has highlighted the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to prevent wildlife trafficking and the exploitation of protected species. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our wildlife and respecting the laws that govern their conservation.
The Actor’s Relatives at the Center of the Controversy
The clip was reportedly filmed at Vikram’s relatives’ residence in Injambakkam, south Chennai. The property is at the center of the controversy, with many questioning how the lar gibbon came to be in the possession of Vikram’s relatives. The investigation is expected to focus on the circumstances surrounding the gibbon’s presence in the private property and the actions of Vikram’s relatives.
A Call for Action
As the investigation into the lar gibbon controversy continues, many are calling for stricter regulations and enforcement to prevent wildlife trafficking and the exploitation of protected species. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our wildlife and respecting the laws that govern their conservation.