The inaugural ceremony of the newly constructed memorial for Dasara elephant Arjuna at Balle Elephant Camp in the Nagarahole Tiger Reserve (NTR), located in HD Kote taluk, was suddenly postponed on Monday and has been rescheduled to June 27.
Forest Minister Eshwar B. Khandre, who was en route from Bengaluru to Balle, turned back upon reaching Srirangapatna, cancelling his planned participation. While the minister officially cited personal reasons, speculations arose that HD Kote MLA Anil Chikkamadu, who also heads Jungle Lodges and Resorts (JLR), may have influenced the decision. It is believed that the MLA urged the minister to prioritize the growing human-elephant conflict in the region and conduct a review meeting with forest officials instead.
However, sources close to the minister informed TOI that Khandre’s return to Bengaluru was due to a medical emergency involving someone close to his family. His itinerary also included participation in a Basava Jayanti event in Saraguru town, which was held in his absence.
Additionally, a scheduled review meeting with Kodagu district forest officials at Balle was called off.
The sudden cancellation has caused confusion and disappointment among local stakeholders and wildlife enthusiasts who had gathered for the unveiling of the Arjuna memorial, which commemorates the elephant’s significant role in Mysuru’s Dasara processions.
Officials have confirmed that the event will proceed as planned on June 27 with revised arrangements.