Baby orangutans found in India highlight illegal wildlife trade, raise questions over billionaire’s zoo

Two baby orangutans were discovered in India, prompting concerns about illegal wildlife trade and the ownership of a billionaire’s private zoo. Business Standard said the presence of the infant primates suggests illicit import or possession of species protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The article noted that orangutans are listed in Schedule I of the Act, making their trade, transport or captivity without a licence punishable by law. No police, court or wildlife authority was identified as having taken action, and the report did not mention any investigation, hearing or deadline. The finding raises questions about how the animals arrived at the billionaire’s facility and whether the zoo complies with Indian wildlife regulations.