5 Tigers Found Dead In Karnataka's Male Mahadeshwar Hills, High-Level Probe Ordered
Five tigers have died under unnatural circumstances in the Male Mahadeshwar Tiger Reserve near the famed Mahadeshwar Temple, located in the Meenyam Forest Zone of Hanur taluk. Environment and Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre expressed deep anguish over the deaths, describing them as a “heartbreaking blow” to a state long considered a national leader in tiger conservation. Karnataka, with 563 tigers, ranks second in India for its big cat population under the ambit of Project Tiger, which was first launched by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
Karnataka Minister Orders High-Level Enquiry
Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre told ANI, "Five tigers, including a mother tiger and four cubs, have died at Male Mahadeshwara Hills. I have given orders for a high-level enquiry. We are shocked and saddened by this incident. A post-mortem will be conducted in accordance with the established protocol."
ALSO READ: Monsoon Fury Intensifies In Kerala: Schools In 7 Districts Closed, Access Restricted To Wayanad
The Minister has also issued written directives to the Additional Chief Secretaries and Chief Wildlife Wardens, emphasising that the state government views this matter with utmost seriousness. He has called for strict and immediate action against those found responsible.
states