Ramalinga Reddy seeks report on tiger and elephant deaths in Bandipur Tiger Reserve

Environment Minister Ramalinga Reddy sought a detailed action-taken report from the Forest Department following the deaths of a tiger and an elephant in the Bandipur Tiger Reserve.

Mr. Reddy has written to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and sought a report within one week to ascertain the causes of the deaths of the two animals and investigate if there was any dereliction of duty by forest officials.

He said that the death of a tiger caught in a snare in the Maddur range and the missing tusks of a wild elephant in the Karadikallu Gudda range were serious issues.

“The fact that such incidents took place deep in the forest areas of the tiger reserve has raised serious questions about the Forest Department’s patrolling system, monitoring, and measures taken to protect wildlife,” the Minister wrote.

He said that zero tolerance will be shown towards negligence in wildlife protection and a thorough, scientific investigation into both incidents should be conducted, besides a probe being launched to find if the deaths were caused by poachers.

“It should be examined whether there is any connection between the two incidents. Necessary steps should be taken to ensure that no evidence is destroyed during the investigation,” he said.

He also directed that Deputy Conservators of Forests and Assistant Conservators of Forests in the State should regularly visit the forest areas under their jurisdiction and conduct regular patrols.

“Officials should not limit themselves to sitting in offices and receiving reports; they should personally visit forest areas and strengthen patrols, monitor personnel’s performance, and conduct regular anti-poaching activities in the forest areas,” he said.

He said that lapses should be identified in patrolling and strict disciplinary action should be taken against negligent officials and staff.