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Karnataka to reject Centre's fresh Western Ghats eco-sensitive area notification
The Karnataka government has signalled its intention to reject a revised draft notification from the Centre regarding eco-sensitive areas in the Western Ghats, citing concerns over potential displacement. State officials argue the notification does not explicitly prohibit traditional activities such as farming in the region.
LSN India ·
Karnataka is set to oppose a fresh draft notification issued by the Union government concerning eco-sensitive areas (ESA) in the Western Ghats, marking the latest point of contention between the state and Centre over environmental governance in the biodiversity hotspot.
State officials contend that the revised draft does not warrant the eviction of residents from designated ESA zones. According to government representatives, the notification has not specifically prohibited agricultural and other livelihood activities currently practised by communities in these areas, undermining the rationale for displacement measures.
The disagreement reflects ongoing tensions over balancing conservation objectives with the rights and livelihoods of communities inhabiting sensitive ecological zones. The Western Ghats, recognised as one of the world's most biodiverse regions, have been subject to multiple regulatory frameworks aimed at environmental protection.
Karnataka's rejection of the Centre's draft marks a significant pushback from a major state in the region where significant portions of the Western Ghats are located. The state's position suggests it seeks clarification and modification of the notification before formal adoption, highlighting the complex interplay between federal environmental directives and state-level implementation challenges.