Jajpur: A live python being carried by an actor on stage during rehearsal for an upcoming jatra show in Odisha’s Jajpur district has triggered a major controversy across the state.
The incident, which reportedly took place during rehearsal for a show to be presented by Tulasi Gananatya troupe at Chandikhole, sparked widespread outrage, particularly among wildlife experts and activists.
As the rehearsal for the play ‘Ei Bodhe Sesha Dekha’ was underway, actor Shubham was seen performing with the python wrapped around his arm.
As the scene has gone viral, wildlife and legal experts express concern and pointed out on social media that use of a wild animal in entertainment without authorisation is a punishable offence under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
No action has so far been initiated by the authorities concerned in connection with the incident. However, the incident may attract action from forest and enforcement authorities as wildlife activists are up in arms against the jatra troupe over the issue.
