Shettihalli Sanctuary Boundary Review Triggers Conservation Debate

Amid growing controversy over a proposal to reduce the notified boundary of Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary in Shivamogga district, Karnataka Forest Minister Shri Eshwar Khandre visited the sanctuary to assess the situation on the ground. The visit comes as debates intensify between the state government and conservationists over legal, ecological and livelihood concerns linked to the sanctuary’s extent.

Government’s Rationale for Boundary Rationalisation

Addressing the media during his visit, the minister stated that the Forest Department has been attempting to correct the sanctuary boundary since 2016. He said the originally notified boundary includes urban features such as a bus station, government buildings and parts of the city. According to him, inspections have been carried out and two review meetings held so far, with another meeting planned to arrive at a final decision that balances conservation needs with local livelihoods.

Dispute Over Notified Area

The Forest Department has maintained that the actual extent of the sanctuary is around 395 sq km and not 695 sq km, which it claims entered official records inadvertently. However, conservationists point out that Shettihalli Sanctuary, notified in 1974 under Section 18 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, describes boundaries that place the area at well over 700 sq km. Legally, the boundary description, rather than the numerical extent, defines a sanctuary.

Role of Wildlife Boards and Legal Concerns

The standing committee of the National Board of Wildlife initially approved the Karnataka government’s proposal to reduce the sanctuary area to 395 sq km, subject to adding two forest patches to the buffer zone of the Bhadra Tiger Reserve. However, the Union environment minister, who heads the committee, later advised that the forest areas should instead be included within the sanctuary. Subsequently, the state wildlife board deferred the proposal citing legal complications.

Important Facts for Exams

• Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary was notified in 1974 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• Under Section 18, sanctuary boundaries legally define the protected area.
• The National Board of Wildlife advises on changes to protected areas.
• The Supreme Court has upheld boundary descriptions over stated area extent.

Conservationists’ Objections and Supreme Court Precedents

Conservation groups have approached the Central Empowered Committee assisting the Supreme Court, arguing that reducing the boundary violates established legal principles. They have also questioned a committee decision to exclude nearly 30,000 acres of notified forest due to encroachment. Sources said the minister was briefed on these concerns, highlighting the complex intersection of law, conservation and development surrounding the sanctuary’s future.