Once fierce & held captive, now age catches up with Vikram, his release

IN a heart-rending development at the Corbett Tiger Reserve, the release of Vikram, a tiger imprisoned for five years following allegations of killing three beat watchers in the Dhikala zone, has been hindered by his age.

- NARENDRA SETHI @Dehradun

Now 20 years old and with several teeth lost, Vikram has been waiting for his freedom.

Wildlife experts said, "Vikram may still have several years left to live, his release is not feasible due to his advanced age. He will have to struggle to hunt other wildlife. Moreover, if released into the wild, younger and more dominant tigers can overpower him and pose a threat to his life."