Metal Pellets Found in Kuno Cheetah Cub; Officials Probe Shooting

Bhopal, October 27: A cheetah cub from Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh has died after metal pellets were found in its stomach, raising the possibility of a shooting, forest officials said on Tuesday.

The 19-month-old male cub was one of the offspring of female cheetah Nirva. Forest department sources said the animal had been found injured by a monitoring team on the evening of October 25. The team was passing through the territorial forest division of Morena district, which lies next to Sheopur.

The cub was rescued during the night and brought to Kuno for a preliminary medical check. It was later admitted to a Jabalpur hospital for specialised treatment. Medical examination revealed three to four metal pellets inside its stomach. Officials said the cub died despite being moved for advanced care.

The death has triggered fresh debate about the safety of cheetahs that move beyond protected areas. Wildlife activist Ajay Dubey has demanded a CBI inquiry and the removal of several Kuno officials, including the Field Director, alleging negligence in protecting the animal.

To tackle the case, the Special Tiger Strike Force has been stationed in the area. The forest department is also working with the state Special Task Force to trace those behind the incident.

Investigators are examining whether the cub was hit by a traditional muzzle-loading gun, known as a bharmaar, or a desi 12-bore weapon. Forensic and ballistic analysis is expected to reveal the type of firearm used and provide key leads in the investigation.