Three outsourced forest department staff have been relieved of their duties after a video purportedly showing them chasing a lion on motorcycles at Gujarat's Ambardi Safari Park went viral on social media.The incident took place in Dhari, Amreli district, during the Diwali festival, when the safari park was witnessing a heavy tourist rush. The forest department said the staff were trying to guide the lion, identified as Simba, back to a designated enclosure after it strayed from the area.In-charge Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Mitesh Vaniya denied that the animal was being harassed, saying the staff were attempting to ensure its safe return.

However, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Jaipal Singh confirmed that an inquiry had been launched and three outsourced personnel had been removed from duty following the incident.WHY WERE FOREST STAFF CHASING THE LION?Explaining the circumstances behind the video, Vaniya said Ambardi Safari Park spans over 300 hectares. Lions are fed every day at 5 pm in a 100x100-metre fenced area known as a 'kraal'.

According to him, the forest personnel spotted Simba straying from the kraal and followed him to guide him back towards the enclosure.The staff were also concerned that the lion could enter another lion's territory, potentially triggering an 'in-fight' between the animals. The department said such operations are usually carried out using a jeep.

However, some personnel used motorcycles on this occasion. Someone recorded the operation, and the footage subsequently circulated on social media, prompting concerns that the lion was being disturbed.THREE OUTSOURCED STAFF REMOVED AFTER INQUIRYPrincipal Chief Conservator of Forests Jaipal Singh told PTI that the department had initiated an inquiry into the incident.He said some forest personnel were directing the lion towards its kraal in the evening.

While the exercise is usually carried out in a jeep, the staff involved used motorcycles instead.Following the incident, the department issued a notice and relieved all three outsourced forest personnel of their duties, Singh said.Vaniya maintained that there was no intention to harass the animal and that the staff were only trying to bring it back to the enclosure.- Ends(With PTI and Farukbhai Dadameeya Saiyadkadri inputs)