A young man from Khunti district in Jharkhand has been accused of killing snakes and wild animals and turning acts into online content for attention.
The story came out after several clips began circulating widely online, showing brutal scenes of animals being captured and killed. The Forest Department soon stepped in, registering a case and starting a detailed probe into what many are calling a dangerous chase for social media fame.
Viral videos expose shocking animal killings in Khunti
According to officials, the trouble began when an Instagram account started posting disturbing videos on a regular basis. The clips allegedly showed a youth catching and killing wild animals, including a Russell’s viper, which is known as one of the most venomous snakes in India.
The videos also reportedly featured the Indian rock python and several protected bird species.
The content did not stop at killing. Some of the videos also showed the accused cooking and eating the animals’ meat, making the situation even more serious for authorities.
Repeated posting of such content raised red flags among viewers and eventually reached animal rights activists.
Concerned by nature of videos, activists filed formal complaints with both the Khunti police and Forest Department. Following complaints and verification, officials identified accused as Lutar Purti.
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Case was registered against him and he was taken into custody for questioning by Forest Department officials.
Authorities confirmed that several animals shown in videos fall under protected categories under Indian wildlife laws. Hunting, killing, harming such species is considered serious legal offence, and strict punishment can follow under wildlife protection rules.
Officials also said that the investigation is ongoing and further action will be taken based on evidence collected.
Family claims mental illness as investigation continues
As the case gained attention, the family members of Lutar Purti approached the Forest Department with a different explanation. They claimed that he is mentally disturbed and requested leniency.
The family also said that after consuming snake meat, he had fallen seriously ill. Along with their appeal, they submitted an apology on his behalf and asked for medical treatment instead of strict punishment.
After initial questioning, the youth was released on a bond. However, officials made it clear that he must cooperate with the investigation and will have to appear whenever summoned by authorities.
Meanwhile, animal rights activists have strongly reacted to the incident. They said treating the killing of animals as entertainment for likes and views is not only disturbing but also a dangerous sign of how social media obsession can go too far. According to them, such acts promote cruelty and encourage illegal wildlife harm under the guise of online popularity.
Forest Department officials have stated that the matter is being taken very seriously. They assured that the investigation will continue and that action will be taken strictly according to the law.
With inputs from IANS.