RTI reveals shortcomings in the monkey centre run by Maneka Gandhi
21 Sep, 2012On the basis of information obtained in reply to an application filed under the Right to Information (RTI) Act regarding inspections by Central Zoo Authority (CZA) of a centre run by the former environment minister Ms. Maneka Gandhi, it has been claimed that there are several lacunae in the working of the centre for monkeys. It has been claimed that the centre named Hanuman Vatika Rescue Centre, spread over two acres near Sultanpur in Gurgaon (Haryana) doesn't have a long-term master plan.
The latest CZA evaluation report of July 15, 2011 has pointed out shortcomings related to staffing pattern, animal housing and upkeep of animals. The CZA has recommended considering renewal of recognition to Hanuman Vatika subject to submission of a master plan for its long-term development and compliance with other shortcomings.
Monkeys who rescued, injured and confiscated are housed in this centre which has been functioning since 2001and currently has nearly 80 monkeys. The People for Animals (PFA) runs the Hanuman Vatika and its Chairperson Ms. Maneka Gandhi has claimed everything right is being done there and that is the reason for the low mortality of less than 1%.