Wildlife Protection / Orangutan transfer on hold as Odisha seeks evidence from Indonesia

Bhubaneswar, Nov 8: The Odisha government has made it clear that no orangutans currently housed in the state will be transferred to another country unless concrete evidence is produced establishing their origin.

Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia said Indonesia’s claim over the animals must be backed by valid proof before any decision on their relocation can be considered.

According to the minister, Indonesia has submitted a report to the Government of India claiming that the orangutans belong to the Southeast Asian nation. However, he emphasized that a mere claim is not sufficient to initiate the transfer process.

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Khuntia stated that an Indonesian team would need to visit Odisha and provide documentary and scientific evidence confirming that the orangutans originated from Indonesia.

Only after such verification and the completion of all required international procedures would authorities consider moving forward with any transfer proposal.

The minister also revealed that the orangutans are currently healthy and being well cared for in Odisha. He noted that the state government would prefer the animals to remain in Odisha and that no final decision has been taken regarding their future.

“The issue is still under examination. The authenticity of Indonesia’s claim must be verified before any action is taken,” he said.

Officials indicated that the matter involves international wildlife regulations and therefore requires strict adherence to legal and procedural norms. Any future decision will be made only after the necessary evidence is assessed and all prescribed protocols are followed.