Bengaluru
In response to the shocking deaths of one tigress and four cubs in the Male Mahadeshwara Hills (MM Hills) Wildlife Division, the Karnataka Forest Department has ordered compulsory leave for several senior forest officials, citing serious lapses in wildlife monitoring and protection.
The state’s Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister, Eshwar Khandre raised concerns after the five tiger carcasses were found just 100 metres from a road—yet went unnoticed by forest staff for two days. Additionally, an anti-poaching camp was situated only 800 metres from the site, highlighting a grave failure in patrolling and vigilance.
The incident has been deemed a major breach of duty and a preliminary order has been issued to suspend three key officers immediately
- Chakrapani V, Deputy Conservator of Forests, MM Hills Wildlife Division
- Gajanan Hegde, Assistant Conservator of Forests, Hanur Sub-Division
- Madesh, Range Forest Officer, Hoogyam Wildlife Range
They have been placed on compulsory leave until further orders. Replacement officers have been given additional charge to ensure continuity of operations.
The minister’s note also criticised delays in salary payments to outsourced patrolling staff over the past three months, which may have hampered forest surveillance.
A comprehensive investigation has been ordered, and further departmental action is expected at the Chamarajanagar Circle level against sub-divisional and field staff.
This incident has triggered statewide scrutiny of wildlife conservation efforts and underscored the need for urgent reforms in forest management and field vigilance.
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