India, April 23 -- Even as the Haryana forest department enforces a blanket ban on birdwatchers in Bhondsi forest - prohibiting photography and other non-intrusive activities - group recreational games like volleyball are being openly allowed in key birding zones, sparking outrage among conservationists who say such moves undermine the ecological sanctity of the forest.

The ban, officials said, was imposed on March 27to prevent disturbances during bird nesting season and curb potential poaching. But birders argued that the rules are being selectively applied and have ironically left the very species the ban is meant to protect more vulnerable.

On March 25, HT reported the Bhondsi forest near Gurugram faces threats from unethical bird ph...