Nagpur, Maharashtra: A Right to Information (RTI) disclosure has raised fresh concerns over the investigation of tiger deaths in Maharashtra, with 24 of 175 tiger deaths recorded between 2022 and 2026 still officially classified as having an unknown cause. The data was obtained by Nagpur-based RTI activist Abhay Kolarkar from the Maharashtra Forest Department.

The 24 unexplained deaths account for nearly 14% of all tiger deaths recorded in the state during the five-year period. Wildlife experts and activists have questioned whether some of these cases could involve undetected poaching, particularly where investigations have remained incomplete.

175 tiger deaths recorded

According to the RTI data, Maharashtra recorded:

• 95 natural deaths
• 27 accidental deaths
• 18 electrocution deaths
• 11 confirmed poaching deaths
• 24 deaths with unknown causes

The unexplained deaths have been reported from important tiger landscapes including Tadoba-Andhari, Pench, Umred-Paoni-Karhandla and Melghat, as well as forest divisions adjoining protected areas.

2026 sees a worrying rise

The number of unresolved cases has also increased sharply. Twelve tiger deaths recorded in 2026 have so far been classified as unknown, compared with 10 in 2025 and two in 2024.

The figures have intensified concerns among conservationists because determining the exact cause of death is critical when dealing with a highly protected species such as the tiger.

Forensic gaps under scrutiny

The RTI disclosure reportedly points to gaps in several investigations, including cases where post-mortem reports, forensic examinations, DNA analysis or histopathology reports were unavailable or incomplete. Such delays can make it difficult to establish whether an animal died naturally or was killed illegally.

Activists argue that every unexplained tiger death should receive a thorough scientific investigation, particularly where there is any indication that wildlife crime may be involved.

The data also records 11 confirmed poaching deaths during the period. In addition, some cases involving the recovery of tiger body parts were reportedly registered as seizures, raising further questions about whether all suspected wildlife crimes have been brought to a legal conclusion.

Conservation questions remain

Maharashtra is one of India’s key tiger states, with major tiger populations spread across Vidarbha and other forest landscapes. The state has made significant progress in tiger conservation, but unexplained mortality can undermine those gains if potential wildlife crimes are not detected and prosecuted.

The RTI findings therefore raise a crucial question: Are the 24 deaths genuinely unexplained, or have incomplete investigations allowed some possible cases of poaching to remain unresolved?

Until scientific investigations are completed and responsibility is established wherever required, the circumstances surrounding these tiger deaths will remain a serious concern for Maharashtra’s wildlife conservation efforts.