Summary
A well-known langur named Golu, who served as a "security guard" at Dharma Samaj College in Aligarh, has been removed from his post. The local Forest Department intervened to end his service, stating that keeping a langur tied up is a violation of wildlife laws. For a long time, Golu was used to scare away wild monkeys that troubled students and staff on the campus. His departure marks the end of a unique era for the college, where an animal was a paid member of the security team.
Main Impact
The removal of Golu has a direct impact on the daily operations of Dharma Samaj College. For months, the langur acted as a natural shield against aggressive wild monkeys that often entered classrooms and offices. With Golu gone, the college administration now faces the challenge of finding a new way to protect people on campus without breaking the law. This move by the Forest Department also serves as a strong reminder to other institutions that using wild animals for private security is illegal under Indian environmental acts.
Key Details
What Happened
On April 14, a team from the Forest Department arrived at Dharma Samaj College after receiving information about a captive langur. They found Golu tied with a rope, which is strictly forbidden. The officials explained to the college authorities that langurs are protected species. Even though the college was using the animal for a helpful purpose, keeping it in captivity is a criminal offense. The team immediately took custody of Golu and set him free in a safe, natural environment where he can live without being restrained.
Important Numbers and Facts
The college had a formal arrangement to keep the campus safe from monkey attacks. They paid a monthly salary of 12,000 INR to the handler of the langur. This money was meant to cover the care of the animal and the services of the handler who managed him throughout the day. Golu had become a regular sight on campus, and his presence was documented by many visitors over the last few months. The intervention took place on April 14, 2026, ending his long-term stay at the educational institution.
Background and Context
In many parts of India, wild monkeys cause significant problems in public spaces, hospitals, and schools. They often steal food, damage property, and sometimes bite people. To solve this, many people traditionally used langurs. Smaller monkeys are naturally afraid of langurs and will stay away if one is nearby. For years, "langur guards" were a common sight in government buildings and large campuses.
However, the legal status of these animals changed. Under the Wildlife Protection Act, langurs are listed as protected animals. It is illegal to catch, keep, or trade them for commercial use. While the intention of the college was to provide safety, the law does not allow wild animals to be used as workers. The Forest Department has been working to stop this practice across the country, encouraging people to use modern methods like ultrasonic sound devices or better waste management instead.
Public or Industry Reaction
The news of Golu’s departure has caused a mix of emotions among the students and faculty. Golu was not just a guard; he was a local celebrity. Many students enjoyed his presence and frequently took selfies with him. For many, he was a friendly face that made the campus feel safer. Some staff members expressed concern that the wild monkeys would now return in large numbers, making it difficult to work in peace.
On the other hand, animal rights activists have praised the Forest Department’s action. They argue that wild animals should never be tied up or forced to work in human environments. They believe that Golu deserves to live in the forest with other langurs rather than being used as a tool for security. The handler, who received the monthly payment, has lost his source of income but understood the legal reasons behind the decision.
What This Means Going Forward
Dharma Samaj College must now look for alternative ways to handle the monkey menace. This might include installing nets on windows, using sound-based deterrents, or hiring more human security guards to monitor the grounds. The incident highlights a growing shift in how society treats wildlife. It shows that even "helpful" captivity is no longer accepted by the authorities.
Other colleges and government offices that still use langurs will likely face similar inspections soon. The Forest Department is expected to increase its monitoring of such practices. For Golu, the future is much brighter as he returns to nature. He will no longer be tied to a pole or a tree, and he will be able to live according to his natural instincts in the wild.
Final Take
The story of Golu the langur is a clear example of the clash between old traditions and modern laws. While his service was valued by the college community, the law is clear about protecting the freedom of wild animals. Moving forward, the focus must stay on finding humane and legal ways to manage wildlife conflicts in urban areas. Golu’s release is a win for animal rights, even if it leaves the college searching for a new way to keep its campus quiet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the langur guard removed from the college?
The Forest Department removed the langur because keeping a wild animal tied up and using it for work is illegal under the Wildlife Protection Act.
How much was the college paying for the langur's services?
The college was paying a monthly salary of 12,000 INR to the handler who looked after the langur and brought him to the campus.
What will happen to the langur now?
The langur, named Golu, has been freed by the Forest Department and moved to a natural habitat where he can live safely in the wild.
