Fri Nov 15 22:03:10 IST 2024: **Minister’s Son Takes Forest Department to Court Over Road Access**
**Bengaluru, November 15, 2024** – Rana George, son of Karnataka Energy Minister K.J. George, has filed a petition in the Karnataka High Court challenging restrictions imposed by the State Forest Department on his access to his property within the Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary.
Mr. George claims the department’s March 1, 2024, decision to permit road access only between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. during monsoon season, when the Nugu dam’s water level exceeds 100 feet, is unreasonable. He argues this restriction violates Section 27(1)(c) of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which allows for access to private property. Mr. George acquired the property in question in 2020 and had applied for unrestricted road access at that time. He maintains the land is used solely for personal purposes, not commercial activities.
The High Court has issued a notice to the State government following Mr. George’s petition. A hearing is pending.
First Piper 