Ashok Gehlot Goes After Sariska Tiger Reserve Plan – Says Scrap It Now
So here’s the thing about Sariska—it’s not just another tiger reserve. For folks in Rajasthan, it’s like a part of their backyard. And right now, that backyard is turning into a political battleground. Former CM Ashok Gehlot isn’t holding back—he’s straight-up demanding the government cancel their new plan for the place. Why? Because according to him, it’s a disaster waiting to happen for conservation. But is it really that bad? Let’s break it down.
What’s So Special About Sariska Anyway?
Picture this: rolling hills of the Aravalli range, dense forests where tigers used to roam freely. Back in the day, even kings came here to hunt. Now? It’s one of India’s most important tiger homes. But here’s the kicker—by 2005, there were zero tigers left here. Poachers wiped them out. It took years of hard work to bring them back. And that’s why what’s happening now feels like déjà vu.
The Government’s Big Plan (And Why Everyone’s Mad)
Okay, so the new proposal wants more tourist spots, maybe some new roads. On paper, it sounds good—more jobs, more money coming in. But here’s the problem: tigers don’t do well with too many people around. Remember how we lost them last time? Exactly. Gehlot isn’t buying the government’s “balance” talk either. He’s calling it what it is—a shortcut that could ruin everything.
Let me put it this way: imagine rebuilding a house of cards, then someone wants to add a fan next to it. That’s basically what’s happening here.
Gehlot’s Not Backing Down
“This isn’t just wrong—it’s dangerous.” That’s Gehlot in his typical no-nonsense style. He’s pulling no punches, accusing the government of cutting corners and ignoring experts. And honestly? He’s got a point. When they reintroduced tigers, they promised to protect them. Now that promise is looking shaky.
What Are People Saying?
It’s not just politicians making noise. Locals who depend on the forest are worried. Environmental groups? They’re up in arms. There’s even talk of legal challenges because some think the plan breaks wildlife protection laws. But here’s the twist—some villagers actually support the tourism push. More visitors means more chai stalls, more souvenir shops. Can’t blame them for wanting to put food on the table.
The Bigger Picture
This isn’t just about Sariska. It’s about every protected forest in India. If the government gets away with this here, what stops them from doing it elsewhere? That’s what keeps conservationists up at night. And with elections always around the corner in Rajasthan, you know this is becoming political ammunition.
What Happens Next?
Honestly, your guess is as good as mine. The government might back down if the pressure gets too hot. Or they might push through with some half-baked compromises. Either way, one thing’s clear—we can’t keep treating nature like an afterthought. As Gehlot keeps saying, once these forests are gone, they’re gone for good.
So yeah, this Sariska fight? It’s about more than tigers. It’s about whether we’re serious about protecting what little wild spaces we have left. And if you ask me, that’s a fight worth having.
Source: News18 Hindi – Nation
