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A youth has been booked in Rajasthan’s Kota for allegedly throwing firecrackers at crocodiles in a river to create a social media reel, officials said on Monday.

The incident took place in the Chandralohi River, a tributary of the Chambal River, which is known to host a large population of crocodiles. The matter came to light after a video of the act went viral on social media on Sunday.

According to authorities, the footage shows the youth lighting a firecracker and throwing it towards a group of crocodiles resting on rocks along the riverbank.

Taking swift action, the forest department initiated an inquiry soon after the video surfaced. Based on their complaint, the police registered a case against an unidentified individual under multiple sections of the Wildlife Protection Act.

Officials highlighted that crocodiles are protected under Schedule I of the Act, which grants them the highest level of legal protection in India. Any attempt to harm or disturb such species is treated as a serious and punishable offence.

Circle Inspector Anil Tailor confirmed that a case has been filed under relevant sections, including 9, 39, 50, and 51 of the Act, and efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the accused.

The incident has raised alarm among environmentalists and authorities, who warn against the growing trend of reckless acts carried out for social media popularity, often at the cost of wildlife safety and ecological balance.
Edited by : Mary Rose Baba