Belagavi: A recommendation by the deputy conservator of forests (DCF), Belagavi division, to divert 0.0642 hectares of forest land in Kanakumbi village of Khanapur taluk for constructing a durable approach road and installing poles for electricity supply to a private resort has triggered a controversy over alleged double standards in forest governance.
The proposal, concerning land under the Kanakumbi Range, has come under criticism as similar requests from forest-dependent villages have historically been rejected on conservation grounds. For decades, residents across Khanapur taluk, including areas in and around the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary, have struggled to secure basic amenities such as roads, electricity, healthcare and connectivity, often being denied permissions citing ecological concerns.
In contrast, DCF Kranti NE has recommended the project, stating that the proposed road and power infrastructure will have minimal direct impact on forest ecosystems and wildlife. The proposal was submitted by former Belagavi North MLA and current BJP state vice-president Anil Benake, who is reportedly developing the private resort. Notably, the DCF has also acknowledged that the land falls within a biodiversity conservation zone that supports rare and endangered species, but maintained that the project will not have any significant ecological impact.
However, a Bengaluru-based nodal agency in the forest department that reviews forest clearances has raised queries over the recommendation, prompting further scrutiny. Speaking to The Times of India, the DCF confirmed that the recommendation had been made a few months ago, citing the need for a durable access road and reliable electricity. “The proposal has now been sent back to the user agency with certain observations and detailed clarifications have been sought,” the DCF said, adding that he was unaware of the political affiliation of the resort’s proprietor.
Environmentalists and local stakeholders have criticised the move, arguing that if conservation concerns are invoked to deny basic infrastructure to forest villages, the same principles must apply to commercial ventures. The development has reinforced perceptions of unequal treatment between forest-dependent communities and private tourism projects.
The issue has once again brought focus on the long-standing neglect of remote villages in Khanapur taluk, with renewed demands for equitable access to essential infrastructure. Residents insist that priority should be given to providing basic services to villages before facilitating private commercial establishments.
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