Sawai Madhopur, May 18 — A video shared by Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, showing a night-time tiger sighting in Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, has gone viral and sparked concern among wildlife experts and conservationists over alleged violation of tiger reserve guidelines.
The video, posted on May 17 from the minister’s verified Facebook account, captures a tiger walking on a forest path while a safari vehicle’s lights shine directly on the big cat. The minister captioned the clip: “A rendezvous with the king of the jungle in Ranthambhore National Park!”
The footage is reportedly from the evening of May 16, during the minister’s two-day visit to Sawai Madhopur. During the trip, he also visited the Soleswar Mahadev Temple inside the park and instructed officials to submit a restoration proposal.
Violation of NTCA Guidelines?
The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) strictly prohibits night safaris in tiger reserves across India. According to NTCA’s protocol, all tourism activity must cease by sunset, and artificial lights must not be directed toward wildlife during any return journey.
However, the minister’s video clearly shows a tiger illuminated by the vehicle’s headlights, which appears to be in direct violation of these guidelines. The incident has prompted wildlife activists to question the enforcement of conservation rules, especially when high-profile figures are involved.
Forest Officials Respond
When contacted for comment, Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Anoop K. R. and Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Ramanand Bhakar did not issue an immediate response. Later, DFO Bhakar confirmed that an inquiry is underway to determine the timing and location of the video shared from the minister’s account.
Ranthambhore Under Scrutiny Again
This isn’t the first time Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve has faced controversy. Recent viral clips have shown tourists engaging in reckless behavior, including playing near tiger cubs and filming dangerously close videos with tigers — raising concerns about tourism overshadowing wildlife protection.
Wildlife experts argue that such instances can negatively affect the natural behavior of tigers, especially when disturbances occur at night, a crucial period for hunting and movement.
“This sets a dangerous precedent,” said a conservationist. “If public officials are seen violating the rules, how can the general public be expected to follow them?”
As the video continues to circulate online, pressure mounts on the forest department and NTCA to take clear action and reaffirm compliance with conservation laws — regardless of one’s position or profile.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.