Bihar fisherman arrested for catching Gangetic dolphin

A fisherman in the Saharsa district of Bihar has been arrested after a viral video showed him allegedly catching a Gangetic dolphin in the Kosi River and taking it home. The dolphin, which is India’s National Aquatic Animal and an endangered species, reportedly became trapped in the man's fishing net.

The footage, which circulated widely on social media, captured the individual discussing the possibility of extracting oil from the animal. Following the emergence of the video, the Forest Department and Bihar Police launched a joint investigation and conducted raids to locate the suspect.

Authorities identified the accused as Birendra Mukhiya. After a three-day search, police and forest officials arrested him and are currently questioning him before he is sent to judicial custody.