Justice Deepak Verma Committee

Why in news? Recently, the high-powered committee, led by a former judge, is tasked with the procurement or welfare of wild animals by any rescue or rehabilitation centre or zoo.

About:

• The high powered committee chaired by justice Deepak Verma initially constituted to oversee the transfer of captive wild elephants from the north-eastern States and its ambit was restricted to Tripura and Gujarat.
• The jurisdiction has been expanded to cater to all wild animals in need of rehabilitation or rescue anywhere in India.

Powers of the committee:

• The Committee may consider the request for approval, dispute, or grievance, concerning transfer or import into India or procurement or welfare of wild animals by any rescue or rehabilitation centre or zoo.
• State and Central authorities should report the seizure of wild animals or abandonment of captive wild animals to the committee.
• The committee shall be at liberty to recommend the transfer of ownership of captive animals or of seized wild animals to any willing rescue centre or zoo for their welfare, care, and rehabilitation.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/committee-to-oversee-transfer-and-import-of-captive-wild-animals-in-india-supreme-court/article66606882.ece