This question asks to identify the specific section within the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 that grants the authority to conduct searches for evidence during an investigation.
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 outlines various provisions for the protection of wildlife in India. Specifically, Section 50 of this Act details the powers concerning entry, search, arrest, and detention. This section empowers authorized officers to conduct searches of any place, premises, or any vehicle, vessel, or aircraft, or any animal, to seize any illegally obtained wildlife or its products and to gather evidence crucial for an investigation.
The core purpose of Section 50 is to equip law enforcement and forest officers with the necessary legal tools to effectively investigate wildlife-related offenses. This includes the power to search for and seize evidence, such as illegally possessed animal articles or parts, which are vital for prosecution.
Therefore, Section 50 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, is the provision that empowers an investigation to search for evidence.
| LIST I (Acts) | LIST II |
| A. Biological Diversity Act | I. 972 |
| B. Environmental (Protection) Act | II. 982 |
| C. Indian forest Act (Revised) | III. 986 |
| D. Wildlife Protection Act | IV. 2002 |