Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh: Madhya Pradesh investigators have opened a major inquiry after two arrested wildlife-contraband suspects allegedly named the chief executive of a prominent Delhi-based conservation NGO, prompting a notice for him to appear before the State Tiger Strike Force (STSF) in Shivpuri.
Arrests, seizure and a fresh line of inquiry
On July 23, four poachers were arrested on the Gwalior–Agra highway in connection with the seizure of 10 leopard skins. The pelts were traced to forests in Madhya Pradesh, triggering a parallel probe by the STSF after the NGO credited its anti-poaching surveillance for the bust.
Investigators said two of the suspects in custody — identified in police records as seasoned wildlife-contraband traders — have told officers they were acting on instructions from the NGO’s CEO. Following those statements, the STSF issued a notice asking Kartick Satyanarayan, chief executive of Wildlife SOS, to appear before the investigating officer in Shivpuri on August 17.
Allegations being examined
Authorities say they have recovered what they describe as "substantial digital evidence" linking the CEO to an operation they suspect was driven by personal gain. Investigators are examining whether the NGO executive organised poaching, orchestrated staged seizures to build an anti-poaching profile, or was otherwise involved in wildlife trafficking.
"We are coordinating with the WCCB (Wildlife Crime Control Bureau)…we will do everything it takes to secure our forests," Madhya Pradesh chief wildlife warden Sameeta Rajoura said.
Rajoura confirmed to media that the STSF has queried the NGO head and is probing several burial sites in Shivpuri and Morena where remains of leopards were reportedly found; those remains have been forwarded for forensic analysis, she said.
NGO response and enquiries
Wildlife SOS had initially credited months of surveillance by its Forest Watch anti-poaching unit for the July 23 bust. The organisation’s public statements at the time lauded the operation. In the current probe, the NGO’s CEO did not respond to emails, phone calls or messages seeking comment, according to reporting. Wildlife SOS co-founder and secretary Geeta Seshamani was also unavailable for comment.
Implications for conservation work
The case has raised questions about the possible misuse of conservation platforms and anti-poaching initiatives. Investigators told reporters they will work with the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau to establish the exact nature and extent of the alleged wrongdoing.
- July 23: Four poachers arrested on Gwalior–Agra highway; 10 leopard skins seized.
- Current probe: Two key accused alleged to have been on the NGO’s payroll; named the NGO CEO in custody.
- Forensics: Leopard remains found in Shivpuri and Morena forwarded for analysis.
Data and next steps
Investigators say digital records — which they did not detail publicly — form a substantial part of the case file now under scrutiny. The STSF has coordinated with national authorities to broaden the probe if required. The outcome of the forensic tests and the appearance of the NGO CEO before the investigating officer are likely to shape the next phase of action.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Seized items | 10 leopard skins |
| Arrest locations | Gwalior–Agra highway; offences traced to Shivpuri and Morena forests |
| Investigating agencies | Madhya Pradesh State Tiger Strike Force; coordination with WCCB |
The probe places a spotlight on enforcement gaps and on the integrity of anti-poaching initiatives operating in regions with vulnerable big-cat populations. Authorities say they will follow forensic and digital leads and have not ruled out further arrests or charges as the investigation progresses.
For forest-dependent communities and conservationists in Madhya Pradesh — where human–wildlife coexistence and illegal wildlife trade remain persistent challenges — the case underscores the need for transparent, accountable anti-poaching work and stronger linkages between field enforcement and oversight bodies.
Investigations remain active. The STSF has set the next procedural milestone with the summons to the NGO executive; further developments are expected after his appearance and the forensic results are reported.
