Bollywood actress Chhaya Kadam, who is known for her strong performances in popular films like 'Laapataa Ladies', 'Madgaon Express' and 'All We Imagine As Light', has got embroiled in a serious controversy. She has been accused of eating the meat of protected wildlife, for which a leading NGO of Mumbai has filed a complaint against her with the Forest Department of Maharashtra.

The controversy started when Chhaya Kadam allegedly admitted in a social media interview that she has eaten the meat of protected animals like deer, porcupine, rabbit, wild boar and ghorpad (monitor lizard). After this statement came to light, animal rights organizations took it seriously and called it a violation of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and the Biodiversity Act 2002.

Activist Sunish N. Kunju associated with Plant and Animal Welfare Society, OIPA and Amma Care Foundation has placed this entire matter before the Forest Department. They say that when an actress who is popular in the society makes such statements, it is not only irresponsible but it can also promote serious problems like poaching. After receiving the complaint, the Forest Department has sent a notice to Chhaya Kadam and she has been asked to appear before the Deputy Forest Conservator of Thane and present her side. At present, there has been no formal response from Chhaya Kadam on this controversy.

This matter is serious not only from the legal point of view but also from the social point of view. When a famous personality openly talks about hunting and consumption of protected wildlife, it not only gives a wrong message but is also a direct indication of violation of law. Now it remains to be seen what action the Forest Department takes in this matter and how Chhaya Kadam defends herself.