Hanur Shoot-out: MLC Shivakumar Demands High-Level Probe, Suspension of Forest Officials

Bengaluru, March 4: Member of Legislative Council (MLC) K. Shivakumar has called for a high-level inquiry into the death of three persons in an alleged shoot-out involving Forest Department personnel in the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary in Hanur taluk, Chamarajanagar district. In a statement issued on Saturday, the MLC expressed concern over the incident, stating that it has raised doubts among the relatives of the deceased and triggered public anger.

Mr. Shivakumar has demanded that the Range Forest Officer and patrolling staff of Hanur taluk be placed under immediate suspension pending a thorough investigation. He described the deaths as unfortunate and urged the government to provide compensation to the victims' families without delay.

The MLC pointed out that conflicting accounts have emerged regarding the alleged shoot-out, with local residents and Forest Department officials giving different versions of the incident. He stressed the need for a comprehensive, high-level investigation to establish the facts and bring out the truth. He also appealed to the Human Rights Commission to take up the case and initiate action against officials found responsible.

The incident occurred in the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area known for its rich biodiversity. The sanctuary spans parts of Chamarajanagar and Mandya districts, and is home to several species of flora and fauna. Encounters between forest staff and individuals suspected of illegal activities such as poaching or timber smuggling have occasionally been reported in the region, though details of the current case are yet to be officially confirmed.

Local residents have reportedly expressed shock and demanded transparency in the investigation. The Forest Department has not yet issued a detailed response to the allegations. Meanwhile, the district administration is said to be monitoring the situation to maintain calm in the area.

This development comes amid growing scrutiny of the use of force by enforcement agencies in wildlife protection. Experts have often called for better training and clear protocols to prevent such incidents. The demand for a high-level inquiry by an MLC adds to the pressure on authorities to conduct a fair and transparent probe.

As the matter awaits official action, the families of the deceased await justice and answers. The state government has not yet announced any inquiry or compensation measures in response to the MLC's request.