Why in news?
On 29 October 2025, the Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) directed the Forest and Revenue departments and the Angul district collector to produce records relating to the relocation of villages from the Satkosia Tiger Reserve. The order followed allegations that relocations were mishandled— including forged signatures, inadequate compensation and failure to follow mandatory procedures under the National Tiger Conservation Authority guidelines and the state’s Relief and Rehabilitation policy.
Background
Satkosia Tiger Reserve is located in central Odisha and spans 1,136.7 square kilometres across the districts of Angul, Cuttack, Boudh and Nayagarh. It comprises the Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary and the Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary on either side of the Mahanadi River. The reserve lies at the junction of two biogeographic regions—the Deccan Peninsula and the Eastern Ghats—making it a biodiversity hotspot. The landscape includes hilly terrain with elevations ranging from 37 metres to 932 metres. The vegetation consists of moist deciduous forests dominated by sal trees and associated species such as asan, dhaura, bamboo and simal.
Flora and fauna
- Flagship species: Satkosia is home to tigers, leopards, elephants, gaur (Indian bison), spotted deer, sambar, barking deer and wild dogs. It also supports lesser‑known mammals like the chowsingha (four‑horned antelope), giant squirrel and porcupine.
- Reptiles: The reserve provides a habitat for endangered freshwater crocodiles and the gharial. It forms part of the Mahanadi Elephant Reserve, indicating its importance for elephant conservation.
Village relocation controversy
- Allegations: Petitioners told the OHRC that forest officials forged signatures of villagers who did not wish to relocate and violated procedures for obtaining Gram Sabha consent. They also alleged that compensation was paid to ineligible persons while eligible families were inadequately compensated.
- OHRC directives: The commission asked authorities to submit details of Gram Sabha meetings, settlement of forest rights, compensation policies and evidence of forged signatures. It warned that failure to produce records would be viewed seriously and scheduled a hearing for 30 October 2025.
- Human rights and conservation: Relocation of villages from protected areas is intended to reduce human‑wildlife conflict and create inviolate habitats. However, it must follow fair procedures and ensure that affected communities are properly compensated, resettled and given legal rights under the Forest Rights Act.
Conclusion
The Satkosia case highlights the tension between conservation objectives and the rights of forest‑dwelling communities. Transparent processes, informed consent and adequate compensation are essential to ensure that conservation projects do not lead to human rights violations.
Source: The New Indian Express