
Karnataka Forest Department official accused of possessing tiger claw
The Hindu
Case registered against Darshan Kumar, Deputy Range Forest Officer of Kalasa in Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka
A Deputy Range Forest Officer of Kalasa in Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka has been accused of possessing a tiger claw pendant. Based on a complaint filed by Supreeth and Abdul Khader of Arenur, Forest Department officials have registered a case against Darshan Kumar, the DRFO.
The complainants alleged that Darshan Kumar had posted a photo, showing him wearing a tiger claw pendant, on social media platforms. He had removed the photos recently. The complainants want the department to investigate if the official possesses tiger claws.
On October 27, Ramesh Babu, DCF of Chikkamagaluru, told The Hindu that complaints had been filed against Darshan Kumar in Koppa and Chikkamagaluru divisions. “We have summoned the official for an inquiry. So far, he has not responded. As of now, he is absconding. We will take action against him,” the officer said.
On October 22, the Forest Department arrested Bigg Boss Kannada contestant Varthur Santhosh from the sets of the TV relaity show for wearing a tiger claw pendant.

The Socio Economic and Educational Survey (caste census) report, accepted by the Karnataka government on Friday, has proposed an increase in reservation to other backward classes (OBCs) from the existing 32% to 51 %. This would result in total reservation in the State going up to 85%, including 10% to the economically weaker sections (EWS) and 24% to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.