SANSAR CHAND vs STATE OF RAJASTHAN

The Supreme Court upheld the conviction of the appellant under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, emphasizing the importance of preserving wildlife for maintaining ecological balance as mandated by Article 48A and Article 51A(g) of the Constitution. The Court noted that organized poaching has severely impacted India's wildlife, leading to the extinction of several species and the degradation of natural habitats. The judgment reinforced the legal framework established by the Wildlife (Protection) Act, which prohibits hunting and trade of wild animals, and highlighted the increased penalties under Section 51 due to the Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2002.