Prep for wedding of Uttarakhand minister’s son in Rajaji Tiger Reserve sparks outcry

BJP leader Khajan Dass dismissed the outcry as a political conspiracy, claiming he informed a senior forest official about the event and that the arrangements were made with the temple committee's consent.

Officials noted that temple visits are regulated with restrictions per Supreme Court directions, including fixed worship hours, limited movement beyond timings, and restrictions on activities that disturb wildlife or obstruct movement; loudspeakers are barred, and temple management must prevent littering and ensure compliance with conditions, violations of which are subject to action under the Wildlife Protection Act.

RTR acting director Rajiv Dhiman said a probe was initiated and officials acted promptly after the matter came to light, with potential action against others found involved after the inquiry.

A show-cause notice was issued to forest staff to explain how the wedding-related material entered the core zone and whether there was any negligence at their level; further action would be taken after the inquiry.

Following the social-media images, the park administration removed the material from the area and registered a case against the temple committee's office-bearers under the Wildlife Protection Act.

Photos and videos showing tents, tables, chairs, coolers and water tankers at the Sureshwari Devi Temple complex in the Rajaji Tiger Reserve's core zone were shared, prompting a response from forest officials.