The bodies of the elephants bore burn marks but authorities are awaiting post mortem results to confirm the cause of death. Farmers and landowners in the area often build fences around agricultural fields and tap power from high tension wires illegally.
They have become increasingly emboldened in recent times as not a single person has been convicted despite several elephants being killed every year around the Bandipur and Nagarahole National Parks. Even if an FIR is filed, the forest department officials say that the accused obtain bail easily. However, farmers claim that forest officials are not sensitive to their problems and that they do little to stop straying animals.
A task force consisting of the forest, police and energy departments has now been appointed to identify unauthorised power fences and take legal action against the same. The team will also encourage the use of solar fencing and create awareness about wildlife conservation.
December 2008
