An Indian aspiring social media influencer has been arrested and detained after his video depicting the cooking and consumption of India’s protected national bird, the peacock, sparked widespread outrage. Police confirmed that Kodam Pranay Kumar was taken into custody on Monday and remanded to jail following the discovery of additional videos on his mobile phone that corroborated the peacock’s identity. The vibrant peacocks are safeguarded under strict wildlife regulations in India.
Akhil Mahajan, police superintendent in the southern state of Telangana, stated that Kumar is currently being held on a 14-day remand under the Wildlife Protection Act. His continued detention or release on bail will be determined by the court.
Authorities are actively investigating how and where Kumar obtained the peacock for his video, which has since been removed from his social media channel. The video showcased Kumar preparing and consuming peacock curry, a stunt allegedly intended to garner increased views. However, the public response was far from the desired outcome. Social media users condemned the video, accusing Kumar of promoting illegal wildlife consumption and disrespecting a national symbol.
The Indian peacock, recognized by its vibrant blue plumage and majestic wingspan among males, holds profound cultural and symbolic significance in India. The throne of the Mughal ruling dynasty, known as the Peacock Throne, featured elaborate jeweled peacocks, reflecting the once vast populations of these birds across northern Indian plains.
In recent decades, rapid urbanization and habitat loss have drastically reduced wild peacock populations. Stringent punishments and fines are enforced under wildlife laws to protect these birds from hunting and harm. Kumar’s arrest serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding these laws and respecting the ecological balance of our planet.
