Maski MLA’s son and brother hunt rabbits, pose for photos

RAICHUR: Maski Congress MLA Basanagouda Turvihal’s son and his brother have been accused of hunting rabbits and celebrating by taking out a procession, carrying the hunted animals on their shoulders. As photos and videos went viral on social media platforms, citizens expressed their outrage.

The Shankarlingeshwara fair was held at the village, following whichthe MLA’s family members hunted rabbits and paraded on the main roads, holding the dead rabbits and flashing deadly weapons in places. MLA Basanagouda Turavihala’s brother Siddanagouda and son Satish Gwuda killed the rabbits, hung them on a tree, and celebrated while holding deadly weapons.

Although animal hunting is a crime under the Forest Department Act, no action was taken by the Forest Department. After Public TV reported on the incident, Raichur DFO Praveen said officials had already been sent to conduct a spot inspection and assured that they will immediately register a case against the accused.

“We will take action based on the severity of the case under Wild Animal Protection Act. First, a notice will be issued, and then an arrest will be made. The department will take action against the accused, regardless of their political connections” he said.

DFO Praveen said that no matter who has done wrong, be it an MLA or an MLA’s son, they will take action.