Sikkim is known for its rich biodiversity, dramatic landscape and being a host for Kanchenjunga, the highest peak in India. In fact, it is one of the most visited tourist spots! However, do you know that feeding monkeys is a punishable offence?
Feeding Monkeys Is An Offence In Sikkim!
According to the Forest, Environment, and Wildlife Department of the Sikkim government, feeding monkeys or disposing of food waste improperly will be considered crimes punishable by a punishment of ₹5,000. In fact, the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 and the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986 strongly ban feeding monkeys, especially Macaque species which are a protected species.
In a public notification dated August 19, Sikkim’s Chief Wildlife Warden, Sandeep Tambe, stated that this is to emphasise an essential subject that concerns the safety and well-being of everyone. Due to faulty waste management and human feeding of monkeys (Macaque species), their population has grown unnaturally.
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The notice further stated that it has resulted in a human-monkey conflict that has escalated among residents of both urban and rural regions. And it has turned into a problem for public health and safety. It is crucial to understand the risks and issues associated with feeding them and incorrectly disposing of food waste. Monkeys fed by humans lose their sense of fear and have come to associate food with people, becoming attracted and progressively more hostile.
Dangerous Bites And Spread Of Zoonotic Diseases
Feeding monkeys encourages them to approach people, increasing the danger of bites or other injuries, especially to women and children. Monkeys are wild animals with unpredictable behaviour. Another worry is the spread of zoonotic diseases from primates to humans and vice versa. According to the warning, feeding monkeys can lead to an unhygienic atmosphere that collects garbage and attracts pests, both of which are bad for hygiene.
The report showed that these macaques visit workplaces, residences, places of worship, supermarkets, and stores in an effort to obtain food from people rather than spending their time foraging in forests.
Human food items are calorie-dense and easily digestible sources of nourishment, but they also raise stress levels and foster aggressiveness between groups.
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Therefore, feeding monkeys can alter their normal feeding habits and conduct.
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