Karnataka Legislature rejects Kasturirangan Report, calls for judicial review

The Karnataka Legislature has unanimously passed a resolution seeking a review and modifications to the Kasturirangan Report. The state government has rejected the seventh draft notification issued by the Centre, which covers 20,668 sq km across 10 districts and 1,449 villages, in its current form.

Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar announced that the state will constitute a high-level committee led by a retired judge to conduct physical surveys. This committee, which will include officials, experts, and representatives from the farming and industrial sectors, aims to scientifically identify eco-sensitive zones, agricultural lands, and inhabited areas. The state intends to request a one-year period from the Centre to complete these surveys and submit recommendations.

During legislative debates, Mankal Vaidya, the Bhatkal MLA and Deputy Speaker, raised concerns regarding the impact on Uttara Kannada district. He noted that approximately 85,000 families living on forest land could be affected by the report's implementation. Vaidya highlighted that 82 percent of the district is forest area and warned that if local interests are not protected, residents might be forced to migrate to neighboring Goa. The state plans to send an all-party delegation to meet with the Prime Minister to present Karnataka’s position.