A YouTuber from Sircilla, Telangana, was arrested on Sunday after a video featuring him preparing and consuming ‘peacock curry’ went viral, drawing widespread condemnation on social media. The video, posted by Kodam Pranay Kumar, faced intense backlash for allegedly promoting illegal wildlife consumption.
The peacock, India’s national bird, is protected under Section 51 (1-A) of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which prohibits its hunting and killing. Kumar’s video, titled ‘Traditional Peacock Curry Recipe,’ was swiftly removed from his YouTube channel amid the controversy.
Forest department officials conducted an investigation, including an inspection of the location where the video was filmed. They collected Kumar’s blood samples along with portions of the curry for testing to confirm whether it contained peacock meat. The authorities have indicated that legal action will follow based on the test results.
Sircilla Superintendent of Police (SP) Akhil Mahajan stated, “A case has been registered under the relevant sections of the Wildlife Protection Act, and the strictest action will be taken against Kumar and anyone involved in such illegal activities.”
The case underscores ongoing efforts to protect wildlife and enforce laws against illegal wildlife trade and consumption.
