Bengaluru: In a tragic and unprecedented incident, the Karnataka Forest Department has taken strict action following the poisoning deaths of five tigers at Male Mahadeshwara Hills (MM Hills). According to a revised press release issued by the Forest Ministry, Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Gajanan Hegde and Range Forest Officer (RFO) Mahadesh have been suspended. Additionally, Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) Y Chakrapani has been recommended for suspension.
Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre accepted the preliminary report of a high-level inquiry committee that found gross negligence and dereliction of duty by the officers involved. The deaths, which mark a first-of-its-kind wildlife tragedy in India involving five tigers in a single incident, prompted swift disciplinary action.
Minister Khandre directed departmental inquiries against the officials named in the report. The preliminary findings pointed to serious lapses, including failure in surveillance and timely intervention, despite prior alerts. The report also stated that officials failed to act even after evidence of wildlife poisoning surfaced.
This rare mass tiger poisoning has drawn national attention, raising concerns over forest management and wildlife protection. The forest department had earlier sent the officers on mandatory leave, and their suspension now follows based on the inquiry’s findings.
The state government has vowed to take further action once the final inquiry report is submitted. Meanwhile, wildlife activists and conservationists have called for systemic reforms to ensure stronger protection measures and accountability in forest zones.
About the Author
