Wake-up call for conservation as Karnataka govt grapples with 82 Tiger deaths in 5 years

In a worrying turn of events, Karnataka has recorded 82 tiger deaths in just five-and-a-half years. The alarming data has prompted State Environment and Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre to order a detailed inquiry. Shocked by the rising numbers, the minister has asked the Forest Department to submit a full report within 10 days, detailing whether these deaths were natural or caused by human actions, and the current status of investigations.

Grim Statistics from Karnataka

According to data from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), India has recorded 662 tiger deaths between 2020 and June 28, 2025. Of these, Karnataka alone accounted for 82 fatalities:

2020: 14 deaths

2021: 15 deaths

2022: 18 deaths

2023: 12 deaths

2024: 14 deaths

2025 (till June): 9 deaths

One of the most recent deaths occurred in Bandipur forest just last Friday. The MM Hills incident, where a tigress and her four cubs died simultaneously, has been described as unprecedented in Karnataka’s history.

Minister’s Directives and Questions Raised

Minister Khandre has instructed the Additional Chief Secretary and Chief Wildlife Wardens to provide full details on each case, including:

How many deaths were natural vs. unnatural?

Were body parts like nails or teeth removed?

Were there lapses by forest officials, and has any disciplinary action been taken?

How many suspects have been arrested and convicted?

How many cases remain under investigation?

He emphasised accountability at every level, demanding answers on enforcement and negligence.

Leopard Killing Adds to the Crisis

Adding to the state’s wildlife woes, a leopard was recently found dead near the Ramapur-Martalli border in the Kaudalli zone of M.M. Hills. The leopard’s legs had been amputated—suggesting poaching. The minister has ordered a separate probe, led by the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests.

A Crisis That Can’t Be Ignored

The spike in tiger and leopard deaths paints a worrying picture for Karnataka’s rich biodiversity. As investigations unfold, it is critical that authorities not only punish offenders but also bolster conservation measures. For a state once celebrated for its thriving big cat population, these numbers are a stark warning—and a call to urgent action.