Section 40 of WLPA : Section 40: Declarations

Explanation using Example

Imagine a scenario where John, a wildlife enthusiast, inherited a collection of animal artifacts from his grandfather in 2023, which includes a taxidermy tiger, a species listed in Schedule I of The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. Under Section 40(2A) of the Act, since John acquired these items after the commencement of the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act, 2002, he is required to have a certificate of ownership. However, because he acquired them through inheritance, he doesn't need the certificate but must still declare the items to the Chief Wild Life Warden within 90 days as per Section 40(2B).

John must provide details about the tiger taxidermy—the number, description, and where it is kept. This declaration helps the authorities monitor and ensure that the possession of such items is legal and not contributing to the illegal wildlife trade. Failure to comply with this declaration requirement could result in legal action against John, as the Act aims to protect endangered species by regulating their parts and derivatives.