Following the viral video of actor Vikram playing with a lar gibbon, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department has demanded ownership documents. The probe traces the animal’s trail from Erode back to its origins in Manipur.

Key Takeaways

  • Vikram's lar gibbon video went viral, prompting a forest department probe.
  • The department seeks ownership certificates and related documentation.
  • The gibbon’s trail has been traced from Manipur to Erode.

Vikram’s Video Triggers Wildlife Controversy

The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has launched an official investigation after actor Vikram posted a video playing with a lar gibbon (Hylobates lar). Authorities have requested ownership certificates and all relevant paperwork for the animal.

Chain of Custody and Legal Framework

Wildlife Warden Yogesh Kulal confirmed that the gibbon was moved from businessman C.K. Ranganathan’s residence in Injambakkam to Erode. The lar gibbon is listed in Appendix I of CITES, requiring both import and export permits, DGFT documentation, and state chief wildlife warden approval.

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Records show that a Manipur‑based stockholder, Laikhuram Singh, declared eight lar gibbons in 2020 under PARIVESH 1, identifying Malaysia as their country of origin. A subsequent Form I under the 2024 Living Animal Species Rules recorded the transfer of three gibbons to S.K. Keshavanathan in Perundurai, Erode, for adoption.

Historical Background

The lar gibbon is native to Southeast Asia and has been classified as “Critically Endangered” by CITES since 1975. Under India’s Wildlife Protection Act 1972, any import or possession of this species requires stringent permits, reflecting global concerns over illegal wildlife trade.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that celebrity‑driven wildlife videos can unintentionally boost illegal pet trade, jeopardizing conservation efforts and public health alike.

“When celebrities showcase exotic pets, it often fuels demand that illegal networks exploit, threatening biodiversity.” – Dr. Rajat Sharma, wildlife law expert
Did You Know?: Lar gibbons can swing up to 55 km between tree canopies in a single leap.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to keep a lar gibbon as a pet in India? Only with explicit CITES and state permits; otherwise, it is illegal.

Could Vikram’s video lead to more such incidents? Without proper awareness, similar celebrity posts may increase demand for illegal wildlife, exacerbating the problem.