Why Did Telangana Suspend the Tiger Conservation Reserve Order?
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Synopsis
In a significant turn of events, the Telangana government has paused the creation of the Kumram Bheem Tiger Conservation Reserve following protests from tribal communities. This move highlights the ongoing tensions between conservation efforts and indigenous rights, raising questions about the balance between environmental protection and local livelihoods.
Key Takeaways
- The Telangana government has temporarily suspended the Kumram Bheem Tiger Conservation Reserve order.
- Protests by tribal communities highlighted concerns about displacement and forest rights.
- The decision affects over 330 villages in the region.
- Government officials conducted a thorough review before reaching this conclusion.
- Inclusivity in development is a priority for the Telangana government.
Hyderabad, July 21 (NationPress) Following significant protests from tribal communities across four districts in Telangana, the state's government has opted to temporarily suspend the creation of the Kumram Bheem Tiger Conservation Reserve.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy made the determination to put Government Order (GO) 49 on hold pending further developments after receiving reports from three ministers.
Minister for Forest and Environment Konda Surekha noted that this decision was reached after thoroughly considering the concerns raised by tribal populations.
This decision coincided with a statewide bandh that lasted from dawn to dusk in Adilabad, Nirmal, Kumram Bheem Asifabad, and Mancherial districts, protesting against the government order.
Public transport was halted, and businesses, schools, cinemas, and fuel stations were closed in solidarity with the call from the tribal organization Tudum Debba.
Tribal groups have voiced their fears that the government seeks to exclude them from their ancestral forests.
On May 30, 2025, the state government had issued orders to designate the tiger corridor linking the Kawal Tiger Reserve in Telangana with the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra as the Kumram Bheem Conservation Reserve, in accordance with the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
This government order aimed to convert 1.49 lakh hectares across various forest ranges, including Asifabad, Kerameri, Rebbena, Tiryani, Kagaznagar, Sirpur, Karjelli, Bejjur, and Penchikalpet, into the Kumram Bheem Tiger Conservation Reserve, as part of the expanded Kawal Tiger Corridor.
However, with over 330 villages potentially impacted, numerous tribal residents and local leaders expressed serious concerns about possible displacement and the infringement of their forest rights.
Konda Surekha, along with Adilabad District In-charge Minister Jupally Krishna Rao and Panchayat Raj Minister Seethakka, conducted an exhaustive review of the situation, submitting their findings and recommendations to the Chief Minister.
Following the Chief Minister’s directive, the Forest Department announced on Monday the suspension of the implementation of GO 49.
Minister Konda Surekha emphasized that the government is mindful of the concerns expressed by tribal communities and public representatives across various tribal regions.
"This government is committed to serving the people. We will never enact any decision that undermines the rights or livelihoods of Adivasis and tribal communities. The voices of local residents have been acknowledged, and appropriate actions have been taken. The welfare of every citizen, particularly our tribal brothers and sisters, is our utmost priority," she stated.
The Minister further affirmed that the Telangana government remains dedicated to fostering inclusive development, ensuring that conservation initiatives align with the rights and welfare of indigenous populations.
Point of View
The suspension of the Kumram Bheem Tiger Conservation Reserve order underscores the critical need for a balanced approach to conservation that respects the rights and voices of indigenous communities. It is essential for policymakers to engage in dialogue with affected populations to ensure sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the suspension of the Kumram Bheem Tiger Conservation Reserve order?
The Telangana government suspended the order following widespread protests by tribal communities in response to concerns about displacement and infringement on forest rights.
How many villages are affected by the conservation reserve?
Over 330 villages are potentially impacted by the creation of the Kumram Bheem Tiger Conservation Reserve.
What does the government say about the concerns raised by tribal groups?
The government has acknowledged the concerns of tribal communities and is committed to ensuring that their rights and livelihoods are protected.
When was the Kumram Bheem Tiger Conservation Reserve order issued?
The government order for the reserve was issued on May 30, 2025.
What is the role of the Wildlife Protection Act in this context?
The creation of the Kumram Bheem Conservation Reserve is in accordance with the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
