Karnataka HC issues guidelines to prevent human-animal conflict
Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday issued several guidelines to prevent human-animal conflict and provide support to the people affected by it, while disposing of a petition filed by Karnataka Growers' Federation.
Among other measures, the division bench of Chief Justice Prasanna B Varale and Justice M G S Kamal directed that a grievance cell for receiving complaints about wild animals venturing into human habitats be established in every taluk.
The HC also directed the establishment of elephant corridors for the movement of wild elephants. The state government was also directed to provide adequate resources to the forest department including human resources, vehicles and infrastructure to prevent human-animal conflict.
The court issued directions on establishing 24/7 control rooms and sending warning messages in bulk to people in areas where wild animal threats are noticed. The control rooms should be connected to the nearest health centres and hospitals for treating people injured in conflict with wildlife.
Senior officials of the forest department should meet every quarter to discuss issues related to human-wildlife conflict and initiate necessary measures, the HC said. The Range Forest Officers and Tehsildars should meet every two months compulsorily to discuss these issues.
The HC also directed the authorities to popularise the grievance cells among the public by issuing necessary public announcements and also publishing it on the notice boards of all gram panchayats.
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Report on Sambhal mosque survey likely to be submitted to local court; security tight in district
Sambhal(UP) (PTI): Security was stepped up across the district ahead of Friday prayers and the likely submission of a report on the survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid here by the court-appointed ASI team following claims that a temple once stood at the spot.
Tension has been brewing in Sambhal since November 19 when the court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid was carried out following claims that a Harihar temple previously stood at the site.
Divisional Commissioner of Moradabad, Aunjaneya Kumar Singh said security measures have been reinforced at sensitive religious sites in the area and around the court in Chandausi.
The lawyer for the Hindu side, Gopal Sharma, said the court hearing on Friday will see the plaintiff's side present their reply, and the court commissioner is expected to submit the findings from the survey conducted on the disputed site.
"Our further action will be determined after the survey report is reviewed," Sharma said.
Shakeel Ahmed Warsi, the lawyer representing the Muslim side, said they are fully prepared to present their case.
"We have all the necessary evidence, and we will first request a copy of the survey report before strongly presenting our side in court," Warsi stated.
Violence erupted on November 24 as protesters gathered near the mosque and clashed with security personnel, leading to stone pelting and arson. Four people died and scores of others were injured in the violence.
The situation remains tense, and local authorities are closely monitoring the developments to maintain peace and order.
