Yes, keeping roadkill in India is generally legal under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, provided it is not a protected species and is reported to authorities. Local municipal or forest department rules may impose additional conditions, particularly in states like Kerala and Himachal Pradesh, where wildlife conservation is stringent. The 2026 draft amendments to the Act propose stricter reporting requirements for carcass possession, emphasizing traceability.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in India
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Schedule I–IV): Possession of roadkill from protected species (e.g., tigers, elephants, pangolins) is prohibited without a permit from the State Wildlife Board. Non-scheduled species (e.g., stray dogs, common birds) may be retained if not causing public health risks.
- State-Specific Rules: States like Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu require carcass disposal through municipal or forest department channels within 24 hours. Karnataka’s 2025 circular mandates digital reporting via the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau portal for all wildlife roadkill.
- Local Municipal Bylaws: Urban areas (e.g., Delhi, Mumbai) classify roadkill as “biohazardous waste.” Unauthorized possession may attract fines under the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, unless processed by licensed rendering facilities.