Amit Jethva, prominent wildlife and RTI activist, was shot dead opposite the Gujarat High Court on July 20 by two motorcycle-borne men while he was coming out after meeting his lawyer. The incident occurred outside the Gujarat Bar Council office. The 33-year-old activist had filed several PILs and RTI applications, the latest being in connection with illegal mining in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. Key amongst them were the one for the appointment of Lokayukta, another for appointment of two more RTI commissioners and a third that questioned the promotion of a forest official. Hailing from Amreli district’s Khambha village located on the periphery of Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, Jethva, a suspended government teacher, was also the founder of Gir Nature Youth Club. After having run an aggressive campaign on several environment issues, many a time involving celebrities or top politicians, he became a member of State Wild Life Advisory Board. Bhikabhai Jethwa, Amit Jethwa’s father, alleged that BJP MP from Jundagadh, Dinu Solanki, could be behind his son’s killing. “I believe Dinu Solanki is behind the killing of my son. He had many times threatened me too on phone,” Bhikabhai told media persons in Ahmedabad.
RTI ACTIVIST GUNNED DOWN NEAR GUJARAT HC
RTI ACTIVIST GUNNED DOWN NEAR GUJARAT HC