Tamil Nadu Forest Department Probes Actor Vikram Over Lar Gibbon Video

Tamil Nadu's forest department launched a comprehensive investigation into the source of an exotic Lar Gibbon featured in a viral video with actor Vikram. The footage shows the actor interacting with the primate, which is a species not native to India and protected under international wildlife conventions. Officials are currently working to determine the legal status of the animal's possession and whether it was brought into the state through legitimate channels or illegal trade networks. The probe has already traced potential links extending from Tamil Nadu to the northeastern state of Manipur and across the border to Malaysia.

The Lar Gibbon is listed under Appendix I of CITES, which strictly prohibits commercial international trade of the species. Investigative trails suggest the animal likely entered India through porous borders in the Northeast, a known corridor for smuggling exotic wildlife from Southeast Asian markets like Malaysia. Authorities are examining if this instance is part of a larger syndicate that caters to high-profile individuals seeking exotic pets. Under the Wildlife Protection Act, the possession of such species without proper documentation and registration with the Parivesh portal is a serious criminal offence that can lead to significant penalties.

This high-profile case highlights the growing trend of illegal exotic pet ownership among affluent circles in India. The Forest Department intends to use this investigation to signal a crackdown on the trade of non-native species that often bypasses rigorous quarantine and legal protocols. If the animal is found to be illegally held, it will be seized and moved to a recognized rescue centre or zoo for rehabilitation. For the average citizen, this development reinforces the strict legal boundaries regarding wildlife and serves as a warning that digital footprints often lead to direct regulatory scrutiny and legal action.