The forest department’s plan to capture 50 leopards in Junnar, Pune district, to address the rising human-wildlife conflict has drawn criticism from wildlife enthusiasts and experts who argue that the proposed random trapping of leopards is an unscientific and ineffective solution. So far in 2025, four human deaths due to leopard attacks have been reported in Pune district, compared to eight in 2024. Conservationists suggest that instead of indiscriminately capturing leopards, the department should focus on identifying and capturing only those big cats that were actually involved in attacks.

A few days back, Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister of Pune district, Ajit Pawar told the local media that 50 leopards from the district will be relocated to the animal rescue and rehabilitation centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat. There are also plans to set up a rescue and rehabilitation facility in Pune district, which would be able to accommodate 200 leopards.