Mysuru: Zoo Authority of Karnataka (ZAK) Chairperson Mallige Veeresh holding a leopard cub and posing for camera has created a controversy. Not amused by the photograph that is being circulated on the social media platforms and a report in a section of the press, wildlife enthusiasts say that the ZAK Chairperson’s act was illegal as per the Wildlife Protection Act. A Forest Department Officer, who wished to remain anonymous, told Star of Mysore that nobody can touch the animals in the wild even when they are housed in a Zoo. Only officers, doctors and Zoo-keepers can do so if touching is necessitated. The ZAK Chairperson holding the leopard cub and circulating the photograph on social media is condemnable, said the forest officer.
ZAK Chief clarifies
