Karnataka Forest, Wildlife, and Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre has recommended the suspension of DCF Chakrapani and three other forest officials for dereliction of duty and negligence in connection with the unnatural deaths of five tigers in Male Mahadeshwara Hills.
After reviewing the preliminary report submitted by a high-level inquiry committee, the minister cited clear administrative lapses. The investigation revealed that an 11-year-old tigress and four cubs aged around 10–11 months died after consuming a chemically laced cow carcass, which was allegedly used to poison the animals in retaliation.
Further findings pointed to negligence in patrolling and monitoring. Although funds for outsourced staff salaries were released by April end, payments were delayed until June. This delay reportedly disrupted patrolling activities, prompting contract staff to stage a protest on June 23 over three months of unpaid wages. The minister termed this delay as another form of duty negligence by DCF Chakrapani and recommended a departmental inquiry along with his suspension.
Minister Khandre also held the local ACF, RFO, and DRFO accountable for failing to supervise field patrols and for not fulfilling their core responsibilities of forest protection. All three have been suspended, and an internal investigation has been ordered.
The committee, chaired by Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Kumar Pushkar, includes APCCF Srinivasulu, CCF Hiralal, NTCA AIG Harini Venugopal, wildlife expert Dr. Sanjay Gubbi, and Mysuru Zoo’s Assistant Director Dr. Shashidhar. The final report is expected by July 10. The incident has sparked renewed concerns over tiger safety and forest administration.
