In a grim discovery, partial remains of a tiger were found deep within the Hanur range of the MM Hills Wildlife Sanctuary on October 2. This incident is strongly suspected to be a case of deliberate killing, sending shockwaves through wildlife conservation circles.
This tragic event occurs just months after a similar catastrophe in late June, when the carcasses of five tigers—a mother and her four cubs—were discovered in the same MM Hills region, later confirmed to be a result of poisoning. The recurring losses underscore a grave threat to the sanctuary’s tiger population.
Disturbingly, this latest death coincided with the inaugural day of Wildlife Week celebrations. In response, Karnataka’s Minister for Forest, Ecology, and Environment, Eshwar B. Khandre, has promptly ordered a comprehensive investigation into the matter.
Minister Khandre emphasized the critical need for immediate measures to prevent such incidents from happening again in the region. He has demanded an eight-day deadline for a detailed report, which must include recommendations for stringent action against any negligent officials and, most importantly, the ruthless poachers responsible.
Leading the charge, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Smita Bijoor has been tasked with overseeing the probe. Her team is directed to personally visit the exact location near Pachchedoddi village, within the Hanur beat, where the tiger’s remains were found, and conduct a meticulous inquiry.
Furthermore, the Minister has instructed that the investigation extend its focus to all poaching cases recorded in this forest over the past three years, calling for a thorough review of previous investigation reports to identify patterns and systemic vulnerabilities.
This latest incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent and alarming poaching activities plaguing the MM Hills sanctuary. It powerfully reiterates the urgent necessity for significantly improving forest protection strategies and bolstering the strength and effectiveness of anti-poaching camps across the region.