Human-Animal Conflict in Chamarajanagar Poses Severe Policing Challenges
In the border district of Chamarajanagar, escalating human-animal conflict is creating fresh and daunting challenges for local police forces. Wild animals are increasingly moving from forest fringes into human habitations, leading to recurring public safety concerns that stretch law enforcement resources thin.
Forest Cover and Wildlife Reserves Intensify the Crisis
With nearly 50% of Chamarajanagar under forest cover, the presence of two tiger reserves—BRT and Bandipur—and two wildlife sanctuaries—MM Hills and Cauvery—has turned the situation critical in recent months. A series of fatal attacks by elephants, leopards, and tigers has heightened the urgency, forcing police to address safety issues that go beyond their routine duties.
Police are often the first responders when panic erupts or crowds gather following such conflicts, even though wildlife management primarily falls under forest authorities. This dual responsibility burdens an already strained force.
Recent Incidents Highlight the Growing Threat
In a tragic event, a pilgrim was attacked and killed by a leopard at the Male Mahadeshwara (MM) Hills, a major hill shrine that draws large numbers of devotees. This incident underscores the severe risks in areas where human and animal territories overlap.
Further compounding the issue, a police officer revealed several alarming cases in the MM Hills Wildlife Sanctuary area:
- The killing and poisoning of five tigers, including a mother and four cubs in June last year.
- The killing of another tiger in October last year.
- A pilgrim mauled by a leopard in January this year.
These events have significantly increased the policing burden, requiring additional security measures and constant vigilance.
Festival Security Adds to Policing Strain
The situation becomes even more challenging during events like the week-long Shivaratri festival at MM Hills. Police must deploy personnel along a nearly 15-kilometer trek route to the shrine, a task made difficult by reported animal movements in the surrounding areas.
Chamarajanagar SP M Muthuraj told TOI that human-animal conflicts are prevalent in this border district, posing significant hurdles for effective policing. The need for patrolling and counter-measures has never been more pressing, as public safety hangs in the balance amidst these ongoing wildlife threats.
