Forest dept fines 4 for trespassing near Dasara elephants and taking photos

Mysuru: The forest department has imposed a fine of Rs 1,000 each on four individuals, including a woman, for approaching and taking photos and videos of the Dasara elephants without permission at their camp near the Mysuru Palace. The department warned that any repeat offence would lead to legal action under the Wildlife Protection Act.The incident came to light following public outrage on Thursday, after videos and reels of a woman with the Dasara elephants went viral on social media. "The woman in question had not received any permission from the forest department and was found near the elephants at night without the knowledge of our staff. There were three similar instances of people going near the elephants and taking photos and videos without permission and they all were fined Rs 1,000 each. If such acts continue, a case will be registered under the Wildlife Protection Act," warned officials."Neither the public nor tourists are allowed to approach the elephants. Violators will face strict legal consequences under the Wildlife Conservation Act, they warned.Meanwhile, additional police personnel have been deployed around the elephant camp to strengthen security. These personnel have been directed to coordinate with the forest department staff in implementing the security measures around the camp.