In a grave violation of Karnataka’s ban on jungle safaris and private vehicle entry into protected forests, two Bengaluru youths drove a red Thar deep into the Biligiri Ranga Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve, even camping briefly at an anti-poaching camp. Their off-road venture, filmed and shared on social media, prompted swift action from the Forest Department and condemnation from conservation officials.
Offenders traced after videos go viral
Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre instructed officials of the BRT Tiger Reserve to trace the vehicle and identify the offenders after the videos surfaced online. The unauthorised entry occurred despite a statewide ban on jungle safaris and private vehicles during the sensitive season meant to minimise disturbance to wildlife.
Officials of the Punajanur Wildlife Range registered a Wildlife Offence Report (WLOR) against the two individuals — G Harsha Raj of Hanumanthnagar and Satish Kumar L of Byatarayanapura.
According to the WLOR, the duo drove into the core zone of the tiger reserve, reaching the Ragikallamadu anti-poaching camp in the Boodipadaga beat, a highly sensitive and regulated zone.
Serious breach of conservation laws
Forest officials termed the act a serious breach of conservation norms, stating that unauthorised entry into tiger reserves not only disturbs wildlife but also places intruders at extreme risk.
Authorities reiterated that restrictions have been enforced statewide to protect wildlife movement, reduce noise and vehicular disturbance, and safeguard forest personnel stationed at anti-poaching camps.
Officials emphasised that such irresponsible actions undermine conservation efforts and embolden further violations if not dealt with firmly.
Further action underway
The Forest Department has initiated steps to seize the SUV and gather additional evidence related to the intrusion. Strict penalties under relevant sections of the Wildlife Protection Act are likely to follow.
The incident has also sparked discussions about enhancing surveillance at reserve entry points, strengthening coordination between forest guards and local police, and tightening monitoring of social media content that reveals illegal activities inside protected forests.