Shocking Allegations at Delhi Zoo: Jackal Burned Alive, Evidence Destroyed

New Delhi: The Delhi Zoo is under scrutiny after sensational allegations surfaced that a jackal was burned alive. Reports suggest that the animal was killed in the Himalayan bear enclosure, with chili and salt reportedly thrown on it, and its body later disposed of to destroy evidence.

The incident dates back to November 22, 2025, when several jackals reportedly escaped from the zoo towards the Azimganj Sarai forest area. The zoo administration initially claimed that all escaped jackals had been returned. However, the National Zoo Workers Union’s General Secretary, R.S. Bhadouria, stated that one jackal never returned.

According to allegations, upon discovering the missing jackal in the bear enclosure (Beat No. 4), zoo staff allegedly turned off nearby cameras, set fire in the enclosure, and prevented the animal from escaping, resulting in its death. Its carcass was reportedly removed two days later in an attempt to conceal the incident.

In a related case, the zoo administration has also been accused of covering up the deaths of three Chousingha (Tetracerus quadricornis) caused by pesticide exposure. Official reports indicate delays and inconsistencies in disclosing the cause of death, raising serious concerns about wildlife conservation practices.

Over the past year, more than 30 animals, including the African elephant Shankar, have died under suspicious or negligent circumstances. Samples from the Chousingha were sent to the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly, where tests reportedly detected phosphine, indicating pesticide exposure. Authorities noted that rodenticide pellets were laid in the enclosure on December 2, which may have been ingested by the animals, leading to their deaths.

Zoo Director Dr. Sanjeet Kumar stated that the official IVRI report is still pending, preventing confirmation of the exact causes. Meanwhile, these allegations have sparked outrage among conservationists and the public, highlighting serious lapses in the care and protection of wildlife at the city’s premier zoo.