A protest and counter-protest against the government’s decision to allow the resumption of safaris in the forests sparked tense moments in nearby Bandipur on Thursday.

While a group of farmers led by Honnur Prakash staged a demonstration against the government’s decision to allow jungle safaris, another group comprising local residents, including homestay and resort staff, also staged a demonstration demanding permission for safaris.

Representatives of the protesters, who have been demanding safari permits, said several local residents employed by the resorts and homestays had not been paid for the past three months. Many others said local businesses, including coconut vendors and roadside teahouses, also suffered a drop in revenue as tourists and other visitors stopped visiting the forests.

The police, who were deployed in large numbers, prevented a clash between the two groups by taking them into preventive custody.

Published – 19 Feb 2026 21:15 IST