Nagaraj Koove, a dedicated environmentalist from Koppa in Chikkamagaluru district, has urgently called upon the Eco-Sensitive Zone Monitoring Committee to take stringent action. His concern stems from alleged widespread violations of forest laws by non-governmental organizations operating within the vital eco-sensitive zone of the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary.
Recently, Mr. Koove formally submitted his grievances to the Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) of Kudremukh Wildlife in Karkala. He specifically accused entities like the Kalinga Centre for Rainforest Ecology (KCRE) and the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station (ARRS) of engaging in activities that directly contravene established forest regulations. According to Koove, these NGOs are commercially exploiting natural resources and wildlife under the guise of legitimate research and conservation efforts. He is advocating for the immediate removal of any illegal structures and demanding legal repercussions for those found to be in breach of forest laws.
Speaking to The Hindu, Mr. Koove highlighted that his complaints, alongside those of other environmentalists, had prompted Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre to initiate a probe into these violations last month. The Minister had initially set a 10-day deadline for the investigation, but over a month has now passed. ‘The Forest Department must act without further delay,’ Koove emphasized, urging swift and decisive action to protect the sanctuary.