Talacauvery, the sacred origin of the Cauvery river—a vital lifeline for millions across Karnataka and Tamil Nadu—is currently embroiled in a significant land encroachment scandal. This area, deeply cherished for its cultural, spiritual, and ecological value, is now facing allegations of widespread illegal land occupation.
A recent report from the Kodagu District Land Records Department, prompted by a complaint from the environmental group Kodagu Ekikarana Ranga to the Karnataka Lokayukta, has uncovered startling details. It reveals that over 40 individuals have illegally taken over approximately 50 acres of land belonging to the Muzrai Department, which manages properties associated with temples and religious institutions. Furthermore, a survey of an additional 18.5 acres is underway to identify even more unauthorized occupations in and around the Talacauvery and Bhagamandala temple areas. According to the Kodagu Ekikarana Ranga, this encroached land includes environmentally sensitive zones within the Brahmagiri Hills, where the Cauvery river begins its journey.
Years of Neglect Come to Light
Thamoo Poovaiah, a member of Kodagu Ekikarana Ranga, expressed frustration to The Hindu, stating that this issue has plagued the region for more than a decade. "We’ve consistently voiced concerns about illegal land grabs in Talacauvery and Bhagamandala, but authorities have repeatedly ignored us," he lamented. "These are sacred sites, and witnessing their exploitation for personal and commercial gain is truly upsetting."
Poovaiah alleged that a mix of local residents and shrewd businessmen, including a resort owner from Kerala, are behind these encroachments. He also pointed out that a 2012 task force had identified 71 instances of encroachment, but its findings mysteriously disappeared, fueling suspicions of powerful individuals influencing the process. "Influential figures ensured the truth never surfaced. That left us with no choice but to turn to the Lokayukta," Poovaiah explained.
After receiving the complaint in January 2023, the Lokayukta instructed the Kodagu district administration to conduct a thorough survey and submit a report. While officials have made significant progress, identifying numerous illegal occupations on temple land, the full and final assessment is still pending.
Ongoing Investigations
Kodagu Deputy Commissioner Venkat Raja confirmed to The Hindu that the survey is indeed ongoing. "We’ve received complaints regarding illegal land encroachment near the Talacauvery and Bhagamandala temples. This survey is being carried out with extreme care, and once complete, strict legal action will be taken against anyone found to have unlawfully occupied government or temple land," he assured.
In light of the initial findings, Kodagu Ekikarana Ranga is pressing the district administration for immediate action. "The report clearly names 40 individuals who have encroached on Muzrai land. We are perplexed why no steps have been taken yet. The administration must not delay any further," the group urged.