BENGALURU: Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Monday warned that the Centre’s move to implement the Dr K Kasturirangan report on Western Ghats could adversely affect the livelihoods of people in 10 districts and create fear among farmers.
Speaking in the Assembly on the opening day of the three-day special session convened to discuss the report and drought, he said the government is committed to protecting the interests of farmers and people.
The special session will debate the 7th draft notification on the ecologically sensitive areas (ESAs) based on the Kasturirangan report that was issued by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) on July 27, 2026. The state has to submit its objection by September 27.
Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy said, “It is the responsibility of the government to save the environment and keep people’s welfare in mind. We need to balance the two.” The draft notification is not final and there is time for the state to submit objections and suggestions.
There is no question of vacating farmers and local people. Any unscientific restrictions could cause serious anxiety among people dependent on agriculture and other livelihood activities, he said.
Shivakumar said he interacted with farmers, legislators, MPs and representatives of farmers. “I understood the farmers’ right to livelihood, their anger and self-respect. All MPs and MLAs expressed their views, and thousands of people submitted petitions,” the chief minister added.
Some suggested special status under Article 371: CM
During his consultation, farmers wanted the report to be rejected and a fresh committee constituted to study the issue. Some suggested that Karnataka should follow the Kerala model and drop the concept of an ecologically sensitive zone, CM DK Shivakumar said.
Former minister Kota Srinivasa Poojary suggested forming a technical committee, while BJP MLA and former home minister Araga Jnanendra proposed that the state fight for more powers in forest-related matters, he said.
“They made it clear that they are not against the environment. Their demand is that their property and livelihoods should not be affected,” he said.
Some suggested taking an all-party delegation to the Centre and passing resolutions in both Houses of the legislature. Others suggested seeking special status under Article 371, he said.
Shivakumar said, “I do not want this to be my personal decision. We called this special session to discuss drought, farmers’ problems and the Kasturirangan report and to collect the views of farmers, common people and representatives of affected areas.”
The government has provided an opportunity for all parties to debate the issue and suggest solutions. “Let us keep politics aside and work in the interest of Karnataka. We have called this special session with the intention of receiving valuable suggestions from the opposition,” he said.
He accused the Opposition of wasting the recent, previous 10-day monsoon session by repeatedly disrupting proceedings.
