CP Sajjanar warns against trapping and selling Telangana’s state bird during Dasara

Hyderabad: Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar urged people not to trap or sell the Telangana state bird, the Indian roller, during Dasara celebrations. He warned that some people cut the birds’ wings, keep them in cages and trade them under the guise of festival traditions.

Sajjanar said festivals should promote happiness, freedom and compassion for living beings. He questioned how harming a bird and denying it food and water could bring good fortune. He asked people to abandon customs that cause suffering to wildlife.

According to Sajjanar, the Indian roller benefits both the environment and farmers. He urged people to let the bird fly freely rather than confine it.

Telangana state bird protection under wildlife law

Sajjanar said the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, prohibits trapping, selling and displaying the Telangana state bird. He asked residents not to encourage or support festival displays involving captured Indian rollers.

He also urged the public to report cases involving birds held in captivity. People can alert the authorities through the toll-free numbers 18004255364 and 9803338666, or by dialling 112.

Sajjanar said the public should help prevent the capture and sale of the Indian roller during Dasara. He provided the three helpline options for reporting violations.