Chikkamagaluru Group Urges Halt to Forest Expansion Amid Rising Wildlife Conflict
In Chikkamagaluru district, the escalating human-wildlife conflict has prompted the Karavali Malenadu Janapara Okkutta to issue a strong appeal to Forest Minister Eshwar B Khandre. The organization has demanded that the government refrain from extending the existing boundaries of tiger reserves, national parks, or reserve forests under any circumstances, citing growing threats to local communities.
Memorandum Submitted with 20 Key Demands
Members of the Okkutta recently submitted a detailed memorandum to Minister Khandre, pressing for the implementation of 20 specific programmes aimed at ensuring the welfare of farmers in the region. This move comes as incidents of wildlife attacks have surged, causing significant distress and economic hardship for residents.
Proposals for Medical and Disability Support
The Okkutta has put forward several critical suggestions to address the immediate needs of those affected by wildlife encounters. These include:
- Establishing a permanent medical fund at selected hospitals to cover expenses for injuries caused by wild animals.
- Increasing compensation amounts for individuals disabled due to wildlife attacks, based on the degree of disability.
- Providing a monthly pension for those with lifelong disabilities resulting from such incidents.
Call for Local Involvement and Streamlined Processes
While commending the government's initiative to conduct a joint survey by the forest and revenue departments, the Okkutta members emphasized the importance of involving local residents and gram panchayats to prevent irregularities. They have demanded that gram sabhas be conducted immediately to ensure transparency and community participation.
Additionally, the organization highlighted issues with land management, stating that agricultural land under cultivation should not require forest department approval for conversion. They pointed out that unnecessary interference by the forest department has caused significant inconvenience to residents. Under the Forest Rights Act, the Okkutta has proposed reducing the period for land allocation and necessary documentation from 75 to 25 years to expedite processes and reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
Key Representatives Behind the Initiative
The memorandum was submitted by prominent figures including Okkutta general secretary Sudhir Kumar Murolli and Anil Hoskoppa, among others. Their efforts underscore the urgent need for balanced policies that protect both wildlife and human interests in Chikkamagaluru.
As human-wildlife conflicts continue to rise, the Okkutta's demands highlight a critical juncture for forest management and rural welfare in the region, calling for swift governmental action to mitigate risks and support affected communities.
