‘Bengaluru Chalo’ protest demand rejection of Kasturirangan Report

Bengaluru: Members of the Rajya Aranya Bhoomi Hakku Horatagarara Vedike staged a protest at Freedom Park on Thursday, demanding the rejection of the Kasturirangan Report. Protesters from various districts gathered to raise concerns about its impact on the lives and livelihoods of forest dwellers.

The demonstrators demanded to reject the report completely. They argued that its implementation would disrupt the lives of people living in forested and fringe areas.

Karnataka Ministers H.K. Patil and H.C. Mahadevappa visited the protest site and assured the demonstrators that the government would address their concerns. They emphasized the need to exert pressure on the Centre to reject the report and resolve land rights issues.

Protesters highlighted that the report’s implementation would designate the Western Ghats as an eco-sensitive zone, severely restricting human activity. Farming, plantations, and homestays in the region would be dismantled, pushing many families into financial distress.

Forum President Ravindra Naik stated that the fight has been ongoing for 33 years. He noted that heavy rains in the Malnad region already challenge farmers, and the report’s recommendations would exacerbate their struggles. The forum hinted at organizing a ‘Delhi Chalo’ movement if the demands are not met.

Law Minister H.K. Patil assured the protestors tht the forest rights issues would be discussed during the winter assembly session in Belagavi. Minister H.C. Mahadevappa assured that the government would adopt a positive stance on granting forest rights to affected communities.