Hyderabad police have rescued four Indian Rollers, the state bird of Telangana, from illegal captivity during the ongoing Dussehra celebrations. Authorities acted following reports that some individuals were keeping the birds confined in iron cages, driven by a superstition that sighting the bird during the festival brings good luck.

Police Commissioner Mohd. V. Sajjanar said the rescue operation was carried out promptly after the police received precise information from vigilant citizens. Raids were conducted at three separate locations within the city, resulting in the successful liberation of all four birds, which were found alive.

Commissioner Sajjanar emphasized that the Indian Roller, locally known as Palapitta, is meant to be seen freely flying in the skies, not held captive. He noted that despite previous warnings issued by the police regarding the legal consequences of harming or illegally confining these protected birds, some individuals chose to disregard these advisories.

The police commissioner expressed concern over the distress caused to the birds due to such actions, describing it as an unnecessary cruelty inflicted for personal gain or superstition. The rescued birds were reportedly released back into a suitable natural environment.

This incident has highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by wildlife protection authorities during cultural and religious festivals, where traditional beliefs sometimes lead to the exploitation of animals. The Hyderabad City Police have reiterated their commitment to strict enforcement of wildlife protection laws to prevent such occurrences in the future.