Karnataka MLA seeks divine help to reduce elephant-bison encounters
India
Sringeri MLA T.D. Rajegowda is mixing faith with action to handle the rise in elephant and bison encounters in Karnataka's Western Ghats.
On March 8, he visited the Anegudde Vinayaka Temple, hoping for blessings to protect his community, which has faced injuries and property damage from these animals.
Locals demand more than just faith-based solutions
Rajegowda's temple visit highlights how cultural beliefs are part of the response alongside official measures like relocating elephants and building barricades.
But locals say these fixes aren't enough. Residents like Shivanna point out that real change will need more science-backed, long-term solutions to keep both people and wildlife safe.