PANAJI
The ruling bench expressed their reservations about the declaration of the Mhadei wildlife sanctuary as a tiger reserve, as they reiterated their concern about probable displacement of several thousand families residing in the area.
On the other side opposition leaders supported the idea of a tiger reserve, highlighting its significance in safeguarding the tiger population as the issue was discussed during the Demands on Forest Department on Thursday.
The Opposition stood firm that the High Court of Bombay at Goa’s order to notify the tiger reserve should be adhered to by the government.
Poriem MLA Deviya Rane, who claimed that 5,000-15,000 people will be affected by the order - a claim refuted by environmentalists - reiterated that families residing in the region are there for generations, even before Mhadei was declared a sanctuary in 1999. She emphasized that these people should not be adversely affected while questioning the basis of the survey that concluded only a minimal number of families would be impacted.
“It is easy to comment but one should stay in these forest areas and experience life in the forest and witness the situation firsthand,” she said, hitting out at the data presented by wildlife experts.
Rane further highlighted that it’s not just families in Sattari but those in Canacona, Sanguem, and Dharbandora that will also be affected.
Legislators Daji Salkar and Ulhas Tuenkar also supported the views and sought a comprehensive study on the issue. “Tiger reserve is not a feasible option… There is also a lack of clarity on the number of people who will be displaced,” Salkar pointed out and added that many families dependent on agricultural activities will lose their livelihood. He sought a proper rehabilitation plan.
The ruling members also contended that tigers are not frequently sighted in the region stating that any tigers found might be migratory ones moving between Goa and Karnataka. Tuenkar emphasized that the government should engage with the people and address their concerns.
On the other hand, opposition leaders supported the establishment of the tiger reserve, citing its importance in protecting the tiger population.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao told the House that those demanding the tiger reserve are not against the residents of Mhadei wildlife sanctuary.
“High Court order provides a Shloka from Mahabharat n protecting tigers. Government must come out with a plan to protect the interest of local residents. Saving tigers is saving Mhadei,” he said.
Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas proposed creating a separate Corporation for Tigers, headed by a new Chairman, along with holding awareness programs and tiger festivals to promote tiger conservation.
He also advised the government against challenging the High Court’s decision in the Supreme Court. “Don’t put your hand in tiger's mouth by challenging the High Court verdict before the Supreme Court,” he said.
Fatorda legislator Vijai Sardesai asked the government to clear stand on protecting Mhadei.
