Is the Madras HC Cracking Down on Illegal Resorts in Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve?
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Synopsis
In a landmark decision, the Madras High Court has taken a firm stand against illegal resorts within the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, demanding action from government authorities. This move comes as part of a larger effort to protect wildlife and preserve ecological integrity. Will this be the turning point for conservation efforts in India's tiger reserves?
Key Takeaways
- Madras High Court takes action against illegal resorts.
- Stringent measures mandated for conservation.
- 47 unauthorized lodges identified within STR.
- Legal clearances from NBW and HACA are necessary.
- Pressure on wildlife populations due to illegal establishments.
Chennai, Oct 9 (NationPress) The Madras High Court has issued a directive to the Erode district administration and the Forest Department to implement strict measures against all unauthorized resorts and tourist lodges operating within the restricted areas of the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (STR). The court has requested a comprehensive action-taken report within four weeks.
This directive came from a First Division Bench consisting of Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava and Justice G. Arul Murugan during a hearing of a public interest litigation (PIL) presented by environmental activist R. Karpagam, aged 57, from Coimbatore.
The petitioner claimed that there are 47 resorts and lodges operating illegally within STR without the necessary legal clearances.
Advocate S.P. Chockalingam, representing the petitioner, informed the Bench that these resorts lack the required approval from the National Board of Wildlife (NBW), which is mandated under Section 33 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Furthermore, he stated that they have not received clearance from the Tamil Nadu Hills Area Conservation Authority (HACA).
Chockalingam also noted that his client acquired information regarding these violations via the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005. In her affidavit, Karpagam expressed that the surge of unauthorized establishments is exerting significant pressure on forest ecosystems and severely affecting the wildlife population.
“To ensure the survival of our forests and hills, these illegal resorts must be eradicated. The implicit support from authorities has facilitated the rapid growth of such establishments. If this illegality continues, we may soon lose our pristine forests and magnificent wildlife,” she warned.
The PIL named several respondents, including the National Tiger Conservation Authority, the NBW, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests-cum-Chief Wildlife Warden, the Field Director of STR, the HACA, the Erode Collector, and the implicated private resorts and lodges.
State Government Pleader A. Edwin Prabakar informed the Bench that the district administration has already denotified multiple huts functioning as illegal resorts and issued notices to others found violating regulations.
The Bench mandated officials to submit their compliance report within four weeks, ensuring that all unauthorized activities within the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve are curtailed in accordance with wildlife protection laws.
Point of View
It is evident that the Madras High Court's ruling represents a vital step in safeguarding India's rich biodiversity. The enforcement of wildlife protection laws is essential not only for preserving tiger habitats but also for maintaining ecological balance. The commitment to eradicating illegal establishments reflects a growing recognition of the importance of conservation in sustaining our natural heritage.
NationPress
10/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Madras High Court to act against illegal resorts?
The action was initiated based on a public interest litigation filed by environmental activist R. Karpagam, highlighting the presence of illegal resorts within the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve.
How many illegal resorts are operating within the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve?
According to the petition, there are 47 illegal resorts and lodges functioning without the necessary statutory clearances.
What legal approvals are required for resorts operating near wildlife reserves?
Resorts need approval from the National Board of Wildlife and clearance from the Tamil Nadu Hills Area Conservation Authority as per the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
What consequences may arise from the proliferation of illegal resorts?
The unauthorized establishments increase human pressure on forest ecosystems, leading to severe stress on wildlife populations and potential loss of biodiversity.
What measures are expected from the Erode district administration following the court's order?
The court has directed the Erode district administration to take stringent action to curb unauthorized activities and submit a compliance report within four weeks.
