Stolen Prehistoric Whale Fossil in Meghalaya
Uncovering and Theft of the Fossil
In March 2024, speleologist Tudor L Tomas from Romania, along with local guides Milton M Sangma and Salban M Sangma, discovered a large fossil jaw with black fangs in a cave near Tolegre village, South Garo Hills, Meghalaya. They were working for Core Geo Expeditions and informed the authorities about their find.
The Geological Survey of India estimated the fossil to be from a prehistoric whale, dating back to the Middle Eocene period (39-47 million years ago). Unfortunately, in January 2025, parts of the fossil were reported stolen from the cave.
Investigation and Legal Measures
Locals from Tolegre village had been protecting the fossil by installing a locked metal grill at the cave entrance. The thief or thieves managed to cut the grill and remove parts of the fossil.
An FIR was lodged at the Siju police station on January 28. Two cases were filed under sections 329 (3) criminal trespass and 305 (e) for theft, under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Consequences and Importance
Scientific and Educational Loss
The theft is a significant scientific loss, as the specimen was stolen before it could be thoroughly studied and analyzed. The fossil is believed to be of the extinct genera Rodhocetus or Ambulocetus – ancestors of modern whales.
Meghalaya education minister Rakkam A Sangma expressed his disappointment, as the government had considered building a museum at the site to display the fossil.
Whale Ancestors and Evolution
Whales evolved from land mammals about 50 million years ago. Fossils of primitive whale ancestors have been found in various places in India, including Kutch, Gujarat, and Kalakot, Jammu and Kashmir. Now, South Garo Hills in Meghalaya joins the list.
Paleontologist Sunil Bajpai explained that ancestors of whales belonged to the same group as hippopotamus and deer in modern times. These ancient whales used to be herbivores but later adapted to carnivorous diets as marine mammals.
Illegal Fossil Trade
In India, collecting and privately owning fossils is illegal. The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972, regulates the excavation, preservation, and trade of antiquities, including fossils. Unauthorized collection and trade of fossils are prohibited and can lead to legal consequences.
Community Partnership and Future Explorations
After the theft, the Nokmas (village chiefs) of seven Garo villages, including Tolegre, held an emergency meeting and banned the Geological Survey of India from further explorations until the culprits are apprehended. Future exploration teams will have to obtain a no objection certificate from respective Nokmas and be accompanied by a local guide.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma expressed his hope to work together with locals and convince GSI to continue the excavation of these important locations.
Asit Saha, director general of Geological Survey of India, called for adopting a community-based scientific approach to the management and development of geosites in Meghalaya.
