Karnataka High Court seeks response on seized African Grey parrot plea

The Karnataka High Court has issued notices to the State of Karnataka, the Forest Department, and the CID Aranya Sanchari Dala regarding a writ petition seeking the return of a seized African Grey parrot. The petitioner, a Bengaluru resident, is challenging the seizure of the bird and seeking to quash proceedings initiated under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

The petitioner claims he has cared for the parrot since 2018 after receiving it from an acquaintance. He stated the bird has a wing disability that prevents normal flight and that he maintains the animal on humanitarian grounds, spending significant monthly funds on its care. He maintains he has never engaged in the purchase, sale, breeding, or trade of the bird.

Authorities took physical possession of the parrot on July 27, 2026, and subsequently issued notices under the Wild Life (Protection) Act and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. Justice CM Poonacha has scheduled the next hearing for November 3, 2026.