Guwahati, Jan. 30 -- A rare, ancient fossil, estimated to be 35 to 40 million years old, has been stolen from a village in Meghalaya, causing shock and outrage among locals.

The fossil was originally discovered last May at Tolegre village in the South Garo Hills.

The Geological Survey of India (GSI) had examined the site and collected samples, and the villagers has been protecting the remaining fossil by restricting access to the area, according to officials.

The fossil is believed to be from the extinct Rodhocetus or Ambulocetus, early ancestors of modern whales.

A case has been filed at the Siju Police Station, and initiated search operations to arrest the perpetrators.

Meghalaya Education Minister Rakkam Sangma confirmed that the ...