The Calcutta High Court urged West Bengal to reconsider the names of lions Sita and Akbar at Bengal Safari Park, stating Sita’s reverence and Akbar’s secular accomplishments. The court disapproved of naming animals after religious or revered figures, suggesting a non-controversial renaming. The case has been reclassified as a Public Interest Litigation for further review. (Word count: 50)
The Calcutta High Court deliberated on a unique plea filed by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) regarding the naming and housing of a lioness named ‘SITA’ alongside a lion named ‘Akbar’ at Siliguri Safari Park. The petition raised concerns about religious sentiments of Hindus worldwide. The court postponed the hearing to consider the maintainability of the writ, leaving the issue unresolved for now.