India HC Directs Goa to Notify Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary as Tiger Reserve Within 3 Months
The High Court of Bombay at Goa has issued a landmark directive to the Goa government, ordering them to notify the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary and other areas recommended by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) as a tiger reserve within three months. This move comes in response to a petition filed by the NGO Goa Foundation, seeking the declaration of the sanctuary and surrounding regions as a protected tiger habitat.
As part of the court’s ruling, the government is also mandated to develop a comprehensive tiger conservation plan in accordance with Section 38-V (3) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act. This plan is to be forwarded to the NTCA within three months from the date of notification of the tiger reserve. The court’s decision aims to strengthen wildlife conservation efforts in the region and safeguard the critically endangered tiger species.
In the aftermath of the court’s order, Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane confirmed that he discussed the matter with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Advocate-General Devidas Pangam. While they respect the High Court’s decision, the government intends to explore all available options before potentially approaching the Supreme Court to challenge the ruling. Minister Rane emphasized the government’s commitment to stand by the decision made by the State Wildlife Board.
Advocate-General Devidas Pangam highlighted that the judgment is extensive, and the government would provide a proper response to media inquiries after thoroughly reviewing the order. The directive entails the establishment of anti-poaching camps and other necessary measures for the protection of the tiger reserve.
Notably, the Goa State Board for Wildlife had previously rejected the proposal to create a tiger reserve, arguing that it was premature and not feasible for the state, citing its small size and non-conformance with the Wildlife Act and NTCA guidelines. However, the recent court ruling overrides this stance, signaling a significant win for wildlife conservation in the region.
The demand for the declaration of the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve gained momentum in 2020 following the tragic discovery of a tigress and three cubs found dead within the sanctuary due to poisoning. Various authorities, including then Union forest and environment minister Jairam Ramesh and the NTCA, have since supported the establishment of a tiger reserve within Goa’s protected areas.
With this High Court directive, Goa is poised to take a crucial step forward in protecting its natural heritage and preserving the habitat of these majestic and endangered big cats. The notification of the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve is expected to bolster conservation efforts and contribute significantly to India’s ongoing initiatives to safeguard its precious wildlife.