Mysuru: Demanding suspension of wildlife safari operations at Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves and strict action against alleged illegal resorts in forest areas, members of Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha and Hasiru Sene staged an overnight protest in front of the Regional Commissioner’s office here on Thursday.
The protesters had initially gathered in front of the Deputy Commissioner’s office on Wednesday, but continued their agitation even after officials assured them that their concerns would be examined. On Thursday, they shifted the protest venue to the Regional Commissioner’s office and intensified their demonstration.
Demand to halt safari operations
The agitation is primarily aimed at opposing the resumption and continuation of wildlife safari activities in Bandipur Tiger Reserve and Nagarahole Tiger Reserve. The farmer groups allege that safari operations disturb wildlife and adversely affect the livelihoods of local farming communities residing near the forest boundaries.
They also demanded immediate action against resorts allegedly operating illegally in forest areas, particularly around the Kabini backwaters. According to the protesters, such establishments encroach upon ecologically sensitive zones and create pressure on natural resources.
Members of Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha and Hasiru Sene argued that while restrictions are imposed on farmers in the name of conservation, commercial activities such as resorts and safari tourism are being permitted.
Assurances by district administration
On Wednesday, Mysuru Deputy Commissioner Lakshmikanth Reddy visited the protest site and addressed the agitators. He said that a report was being prepared regarding the alleged illegal resorts operating near Kabini backwaters.
“A report is being prepared on the illegal resorts at Kabini backwaters. We will also write a letter to the government explaining the stiff opposition by the farmers to resume wildlife safari at the Tiger Reserves,” he said.
The Regional Commissioner and the director of Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC) also arrived at the spot and assured the protesters that their grievances would be conveyed to the State government.
Despite these assurances, the protesters chose to continue their agitation, stating that they would not withdraw until concrete action is initiated.
Overnight protest intensifies agitation
On Thursday, the members moved their protest to the Regional Commissioner’s office. Demonstrating their resolve, they brought beds and cooking vessels and began preparing food on-site, signalling an indefinite protest.
Protesters said the overnight agitation was meant to draw the attention of higher authorities and press for immediate suspension of safari activities until a comprehensive review is undertaken.
Farmer leaders claimed that tourism-related activities inside and around forest areas have increased over the years without adequate consultation with local communities. They alleged that such activities disturb wildlife habitats and create man-animal conflict, affecting agricultural lands.
Call for balanced conservation
While conservationists argue that regulated safari tourism generates revenue and creates awareness about wildlife protection, the protesting farmers insisted that ecological preservation must not come at the cost of local livelihoods.
They urged the government to ensure strict enforcement against illegal constructions and to review policies related to tourism within protected areas.
As of Thursday evening, the protest was continuing, with leaders stating that they would intensify the agitation if their demands were not addressed. The district administration is expected to forward a detailed report to the State government for further consideration.