Tue Sep 16 18:53:46 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Acting on the Madras High Court’s directives, authorities in the Nilgiris district, India, have sealed approximately 25 illegal homestays and cottages. District Collector Lakshmi Bhavya Tanneeru announced that the clampdown, led by District Revenue Officers, is an ongoing process. Property owners are reportedly planning to challenge the actions in court. The district administration is prioritizing building permissions for local residents and has established a helpline to prevent fraudulent activity by middlemen. Separately, the Nilgiris forest division fined a private estate ₹1 lakh for conducting unauthorized tourism activities.
**News Article:**
**Nilgiris Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Homestays, Fine Estate for Unlawful Tourism**
**UDHAGAMANDALAM, INDIA – September 17, 2025** – In response to orders from the Madras High Court, the Nilgiris district administration has sealed approximately 25 properties operating as illegal homestays and cottages. District Collector Lakshmi Bhavya Tanneeru announced the crackdown during a press conference, stating that District Revenue Officers are leading the effort.
“This is a continuous process, and we are acting swiftly to address the issue of illegal properties,” said Ms. Tanneeru. “However, we anticipate legal challenges from resort owners, as our directive was limited to sealing the properties.”
The administration emphasized its commitment to following due process, including issuing notices to property owners and allowing them time to respond and provide documentation before sealing the premises. The initiative aims to curb unauthorized construction and ensure compliance with local regulations.
Simultaneously, the district administration is streamlining building permission processes for local residents and has launched a helpline to prevent fraud by intermediaries promising expedited approvals. “We are prioritizing building permissions for local residents and taking steps to eliminate the exploitation of vulnerable citizens,” Ms. Tanneeru stated.
In a separate development, the Nilgiris forest division has levied a fine of ₹1 lakh on the Hungerford Tea Estate for organizing illegal tourism activities on its property. The Forest Department confirmed that the fine was imposed on both the estate owner and manager following an investigation. This action underscores the authorities’ commitment to protecting the environment and enforcing regulations governing tourism in the region.
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