Imphal: Residents of Ishok village have declared war on poachers. They passed a resolution this week to ban the hunting, trapping, and killing of endangered hog deer, known locally as Kharsa. The new rules apply to the village and surrounding wetlands, including Jawa Lamjao and Ngakratubi.
Violators face a steep penalty. Anyone caught hunting these animals will pay a fine of up to 5 lakh rupees. They also face immediate legal action from the Forest Department. The village is serious about enforcement. Even pet owners are on the hook, as they must pay the same massive fine if their dogs attack a deer.
To manage the crackdown, the community formed the Ishok Apunba Wildlife Protection Committee. This group will patrol the area and stop outsiders from entering for illegal hunting. The committee will also report all incidents directly to the Bishnupur Forest Division.
Divisional Forest Officer Waikhom Romabai backed the plan. He called it a historic step for the state. Romabai said the move, "would strengthen wildlife conservation and promote coexistence between humans and nature."
The hog deer lives in the floating wetlands of the nearby Keibul Lamjao National Park. It remains under threat from habitat loss and poaching. By taking these steps, Ishok residents hope to keep the species alive.
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