Actor Vikram Faces Probe Over Viral Lar Gibbon Video

The Tamil Nadu Forest Department is investigating actor Vikram after a video of him interacting with a Lar Gibbon became widely shared, prompting public criticism. Wildlife officials are seeking ownership documentation for the animal.

What Happened

The Lar Gibbon, previously at the residence of businessman C.K. Ranganathan in Injambakkam, has been relocated to Erode. This action follows the viral circulation of a video depicting actor Vikram with the animal. The Wildlife Warden in Chennai confirmed that the department is collecting necessary documents from individuals associated with the gibbon's possession.

Key Facts

• The Tamil Nadu Forest Department is probing the possession of a Lar Gibbon after a video of actor Vikram with the animal gained traction.
• The animal was moved from businessman C.K. Ranganathan's residence in Injambakkam to Erode.
• The Lar Gibbon (Hylobates lar) is listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
• Records indicate a link to Manipur, where a stock holder declared eight Lar Gibbons in 2020, identified as originating from Malaysia.
• A subsequent report details the transfer of three Lar Gibbons from Manipur to S.K. Keshavanathan in Perundurai, Erode.
• Officials found one male and one female gibbon at Mr. Keshavanathan's premises, who stated one of three gibbons he applied for had died.
• Authorities are examining the chain of possession, including a potential transfer from Mr. Keshavanathan to Mr. Ranganathan, for which a certificate is pending approval.
• Concerns have been raised by an activist regarding the risk of zoonotic disease transmission from keeping primates as pets and the potential to fuel demand through celebrity endorsements.

Background

The import of species listed under CITES Appendix I requires specific permissions, including CITES import and export permits, Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) documentation, and approval from the Chief Wildlife Warden of the importing state. Official records from 2020 show a Manipur-based stockholder declared eight Lar Gibbons, with Malaysia listed as their country of origin. These animals were reportedly transferred to Erode, Tamil Nadu.

Why It Matters

The inquiry highlights concerns about the legalities surrounding the ownership and transfer of exotic species. Activists point out the risks of zoonotic diseases associated with keeping primates and suggest that public figures interacting with such animals could inadvertently encourage illegal wildlife trafficking and demand for vulnerable species.