On June 18, 2025, officials from the forest and police departments jointly executed an operation to dismantle six unauthorised dwellings erected by tribal inhabitants in the Atturu Kolli forest region of Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary. These structures were constructed on June 17, 2025, resulting in the felling of roughly 42 small trees.
The authorities had issued a formal notice to tribal leaders on June 17 demanding the removal of these structures. When given the choice to voluntarily dismantle the huts, the tribal residents ( Jenu Kuruba ) declined and prevented forest and police personnel from accessing the area. Subsequently, the forest staff accessed the location through an alternative path to carry out the removal operation.
The Kodagu Sub-Divisional Forest Rights Committee had previously rejected the forest rights applications of the tribal residents during their meeting on May 22. The applicants received a 60-day window to submit their appeal to the Committee.
The operation resulted in the removal of six newly constructed huts, while six pre-existing temporary structures remained untouched. Senior officials leading the operation included the Assistant Conservator of Forests, Range Forest Officers, and Deputy Range Forest Officers, supported by police personnel comprising the Deputy Superintendent of Police, Circle Inspectors, and police constables.
