Leh: A video that recently went viral on social media has sparked outrage and swift action from authorities in Ladakh.
The footage showed a group of people holding a Himalayan Marmot — a shy, burrowing animal native to high-altitude regions and protected under India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
The Himalayan Marmot is a Schedule-I species, meaning it is among the most protected animals in the country — similar in status to the snow leopard and tiger.
The video, reportedly filmed in the remote Chusumla area of Nyoma Sub-Division, reached the Department of Wildlife Protection on the evening of 9th July. Without wasting time, officials formed a special team to investigate the incident and identify those responsible.
By the next morning, with help from Army personnel posted at Chusumla, the team reached the site seen in the video. There, they located the tent where the accused were staying.
According to officials, the group admitted to catching the marmot, filming the act, and sharing it on social media. Though they claimed to have released the animal afterward, a deeper search of the area revealed concerning details: a snare made of military signal wire and blocked marmot burrows, suggesting an intentional effort to trap the animal.
Five individuals were detained and brought to Leh on July 10. After a medical examination at SNM Hospital, they were presented before the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Leh, on 11th July, where the Wildlife Department secured a three-day police remand for further questioning.
Authorities have urged locals and tourists alike to respect Ladakh’s delicate ecosystem and refrain from any action that harms or disturbs wildlife.
“Ladakh’s unique biodiversity is not just an ecological treasure — it’s our responsibility to protect it,” said an official from the Department of Wildlife Protection. “Strict action will be taken against anyone found violating wildlife laws.”
