Tiger Fear Grips Karnataka Villages Amid Safari Ban Debate

Fear continues to grip forest-fringe villages in Karnataka following recent tiger attacks that claimed the lives of three farmers and injured another. This has led to a deepening debate over the suspension of safaris in the Nagarahole and Bandipur Tiger Reserves.

Tourism stakeholders are urging the government to lift the ban, emphasizing the severe impact on the industry, especially with the approaching New Year season and the risk of financial losses and unemployment. They submitted a memorandum to the district administration seeking the immediate revocation of the safari suspension.

Conversely, the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha and Raitha Parva are advocating for the continuation of the safari ban, prioritizing the safety of villagers and farmers. They also highlighted concerns regarding illegal homestays and resorts operating near forest boundaries, which they believe contribute to increased human-wildlife conflicts, and called for robust preventive measures.