Multiple tigers die of canine distemper virus (CDV) at Madhya Pradesh’s Kanha Tiger Reserve, prompting court scrutiny and renewed disease-control efforts, according to reports. The Madhya Pradesh High Court takes note of the deaths and directs the Central and state governments to take joint and effective steps to prevent further infections. A division bench asks authorities to submit a detailed status report and explain measures being taken, including containment and quarantine steps. The next hearing is scheduled for July 9. The court action follows a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by lawyer Subrat Chakraborty, which cites gaps in disease monitoring and biosecurity in tiger reserves and points to requirements under India’s wildlife protection framework and tiger conservation guidelines.
Wildlife officials confirm that one more tiger dies of CDV, bringing the total to seven deaths in about a month, including four cubs. The affected animals are reported to include tigress T-122, tigress T-141, and her four sub-adult cubs, among others. Officials state that dogs can act as carriers and report that about 2,900 dogs in surrounding hamlets are vaccinated, with remaining dogs still being covered. A dog vaccination drive is also reportedly started in other tiger reserves in the state.
