In a shocking incident, three individuals have been booked for allegedly consuming alcohol inside the core area of the Bandipur Tiger Reserve in Karnataka. The incident, which took place within the biodiverse tiger habitat, has drawn severe criticism from environmentalists and wildlife activists.
Incident Details
The trio was found consuming alcohol in a restricted zone of the reserve, which is a protected area under the Wildlife Protection Act. The case was registered based on a complaint filed by forest officials, who detected the violation during a routine patrol. The accused have been charged under relevant sections of the Wildlife Protection Act and the Karnataka Excise Act.
Environmentalists' Reaction
Environmentalists have condemned the act, stating that such behavior poses a threat to the fragile ecosystem and endangers wildlife. "Bandipur is a critical tiger habitat, and any human disturbance can have severe consequences for the animals," said a local conservationist. The incident has sparked calls for stricter enforcement of rules and increased surveillance in protected areas.
Legal Action
Forest department officials confirmed that a case has been registered and an investigation is underway. The accused may face penalties including fines and imprisonment if found guilty. The authorities are also exploring measures to prevent such incidents in the future, such as deploying more patrols and installing surveillance cameras.
The Bandipur Tiger Reserve, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, is home to a significant population of Bengal tigers and other wildlife. It is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and tourists, but strict regulations are in place to protect the habitat.
