Powers of the Central Government

The Central government is however empowered under section 40 A of the Wildlife (Protection) Act to grant immunity in certain cases. The central government through a notification may require any person to declare to the Chief Wildlife Warden or the authorized officer, any captive animal, animal article, trophy, or uncured trophy in his control derived from animals specified in Schedule I of Part II of Schedule II, and custody or possession in respect of which no declaration has been made.

Once this notification is issued, any action taken or purported to be taken for violation of section 40 of the Act or any time before the commencement of the Act, shall not be proceeded with and all pending proceedings shall stand abated. Further, sub-section (3) states that any captive animal declared under section 40 A (1) shall be dealt with in such manner and such condition as may be prescribed.