In a troubling twist at Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, two elephant mahouts, entrusted with wildlife care, have been accused of aiding in poaching activities—a stark case of the proverbial ‘fence eating the crop’.
According to P.A. Seema, Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), the two mahouts from Doddaharave Elephant Camp under Hunsur Division, have been suspended for their alleged involvement in the illegal hunting of a wild boar. The incident reportedly occurred in March, near the Doddaharave forest border.
Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) N. Lakshmikanth confirmed that H.N. Manju, caretaker of elephant Maasthi, and J.D. Manju, handler of elephant Ramaiah—both residents of Nagapura tribal settlement—were linked to the crime. The duo reportedly collaborated with another Manju, a known poacher from Neralakuppe, who is currently on the run.
The illegal activity came to light after a gun was discovered in the quarters of one of the mahouts during a routine inspection by the Doddaharave DRFO. A case has been filed under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, on April 1, and authorities plan to submit a charge sheet to the court.
ACF Lakshmikanth noted that this is the first such instance of internal staff being involved in poaching within NTR. He added that dismissal of the accused mahouts is likely to be recommended.
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