Dear Sir,

This incidence happened on 5th June, 2015 in Hafijpur, Munsirhat of Uluberia subdivision in Howrah district, West Bengal. Some locals here reportedly killed 5 Fishing cats for meat and illegal skin trade on that day. Such incidences in Howrah are rampant because it falls outside the purview of protected areas with lesser surveillance and presence of government and non-government organisations. According to a report published and circulated in 2010-11, 27 Fishing cats were killed within the span of 18 months in Howrah.

In this regard, we as scientists, conservationists and concerned citizens would like to appeal to the Forest Department to take immediate measures to punish the culprits who committed this heinous crime and is driving the State Animal of West Bengal (Schedule I, WPLA,1972; Endangered, IUCN Red List, 2010) species to the brink of extinction. The punishment should set an exemplary instance to others with similar mentalities. We urge you to form a Fishing Cat Protection Force in Howrah, a stronghold of Fishing cats due to presence of freshwater marshes, to prevent the recurrence of such incidences in the future. We pledge our full assistance to your department for all immediate actions.

Thank you,