HC bans night safari at Jawai leopard reserve

Jodhpur/Jaipur: The Rajasthan high court's principal seat in Jodhpur has barred night safari and restricted all wildlife tourism activities in the Jawai leopard conservation reserve and nearby areas between 6am and 7pm, tightening regulations in the ecologically sensitive area of Pali district.A division bench of Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Justice Sandeep Shah, hearing a PIL filed by Apoorva Agrawal, also ordered an immediate ban on the use of drones, spotlights and other intrusive devices that disturb wildlife, particularly leopards. Authorities have been directed to take prompt penal action against violators.In its order uploaded Wednesday, the court stressed the need for strict regulation of tourism in Jawai, often referred to as a "leopard country", citing concerns over unregulated activities harming its fragile ecosystem. TNNIt underscored the constitutional mandate under Article 48A, which obligates the state to protect and improve the environment and safeguard forests and wildlife, noting that it is intrinsically linked to the right to life under Article 21.Highlighting Jawai's ecological significance, the bench observed that the region represents a rare example of harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife, especially the Indian leopard and the local Rabari community. However, it warned that this delicate balance is under increasing threat from commercialisation and unregulated tourism infrastructure.Counsel for the petitioner argued that rampant violations, including night safari, artificial lighting and drone surveillance, have caused severe disturbance and stress to wildlife. Such practices, it was submitted, also pose safety risks to tourists and undermine long-term conservation efforts.Taking note, the court issued interim directions to curb harmful practices, directing authorities to restrain any person found disturbing wildlife and initiate immediate action against erring safari operators, hospitality staff or individuals.The state and other respondents have been asked to file replies before April 20, when the court will consider additional measures after examining their responses.