Supreme Court Reviews Goa’s Plea on Mhadei Tiger Reserve

The Supreme Court of India is set to review a plea on September 11, 2023, regarding the designation of the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve. The challenge comes after the High Court of Goa ordered the state government to officially declare the sanctuary and its adjacent areas as a protected tiger habitat.

Background of the Case

The case, which has been prioritised on the court’s agenda, will be presented before the Chief Justice of India. Activist and petitioner Claude Alvares confirmed that the matter has been placed on board number one, indicating its significance. A previous order from the High Court, dated July 24, 2023, mandated that the Goa government notify the sanctuary as a tiger reserve within a three-month timeframe. This directive is now under scrutiny following an appeal by the state government.

In September 2023, the Goa government moved to the Supreme Court to contest the High Court’s ruling. The state is also facing a contempt petition for not adhering to the earlier directive, which further complicates the legal landscape surrounding the sanctuary.

Support for the Tiger Reserve Proposal

The proposal to establish the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve has garnered support from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). In its affidavit, the NTCA underscored the sanctuary’s potential for expanding the tiger habitat in Goa and the northern Western Ghats, a region known for its rich biodiversity.

The outcome of the Supreme Court hearing could have significant implications for wildlife conservation efforts in the region. The designation of the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve could enhance protections for the area, promoting both biodiversity and ecological balance.

As the case unfolds, stakeholders are closely monitoring the developments, given the sanctuary’s ecological importance and the ongoing discussions surrounding wildlife protection in India. The Supreme Court’s decision will not only affect the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary but could also set precedents for future conservation initiatives across the country.