India, June 16 -- Deadlock in Athuru Kolli settlement: Forest Dept. says illegal; tribals say ancestral

By M.T. Yogesh Kumar

Fifty-two tribal families have recently settled deep inside the Athuru Kolli forest, a dense and wildlife-rich area within the Balekovu Division of Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, under the Kutta Range in Kodagu district.

Despite the dangers posed by elephants, tigers, leopards and bears, over 250 individuals have pitched temporary tents, demanding permanent resettlement.

Previously residing in line houses across coffee estates, they claim ancestral ties to this forest region, stating that their forebears were evicted nearly three decades ago by the Forest Department for rehabilitation purposes. With the support of ce...