# Vikram’s deleted video triggers probe into Lar Gibbon possession

2026-08-13T07:03:06+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 2 independent outlets

Tamil Nadu forest officials are investigating the possession and movement of endangered Lar Gibbons after a deleted video showed actor Vikram cuddling one. Three gibbons were reportedly moved from Manipur to a farm in Erode and then to Chennai businessman C.K. Ranganathan’s residence. One female gibbon died, allegedly unreported as required under the Living Animal Species Rules, 2024. The Erode District Forest Officer has asked farm owner S.K. Keshavanathan to produce registration documents by August 14. The application for registration was made over two months after the animals arrived. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau is also inspecting the farm. The two surviving gibbons may be seized. Officials are examining whether all statutory requirements under the Wildlife Protection Act were followed.

## Coverage

- nationalheraldindia.com <https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/national/vikrams-deleted-video-prompts-probe-into-possession-of-endangered-lar-gibbons>
- thehindu.com <https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/video-of-actor-vikram-with-lar-gibbon-tamil-nadu-forest-department-probes/article71332774.ece>
- thehindu.com <https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/actor-vikram-case-farm-owner-in-erode-asked-to-produce-documents-on-lar-gibbons/article71339777.ece>

Tags: exotic pet trade, Lar Gibbons, Tamil Nadu, Vikram, wildlife protection act
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