Yash Toxic lands in trouble

"Toxic" Film Set Faces Backlash Over Alleged Illegal Tree Felling in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, [Date]: Kannada superstar Yash's highly anticipated film "Toxic" has found itself embroiled in controversy over allegations of illegal tree felling for set construction. Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre has ordered a thorough investigation and disciplinary action against those responsible for permitting the alleged violation.

Khandre, who personally inspected the site where the film's shooting took place, has accused Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) of illegally selling 599 acres of gazetted reserve forest land in Bengaluru's Peenya Plantations 1 and 2. The land was allegedly transferred to HMT in the 1960s without proper de-notification.

"HMT illegally sold the forest land in their possession to various government and private organizations and individuals, leading to non-forestry activities in the area," Khandre alleged, citing satellite imagery as evidence of the tree felling. He further revealed that HMT has been leasing out the forest land under its control for film shoots and renting out open spaces on a daily basis.

The minister emphasized that unauthorized tree felling on forest land is a serious offense and has demanded a detailed report on the extent of deforestation and the necessary approvals obtained. He has instructed officials to take strict disciplinary action against officers who authorized the tree felling and to register forest offense cases against those responsible.

The letter to the Additional Chief Secretary of the Department of Forest, Ecology, and Environment states that disciplinary action should be taken against the officer who permitted the tree cutting and that forest offenses cases should be registered against all those responsible.

Meanwhile, "Toxic," directed by Geethu Mohandas, is set to release on April 10, 2025. The film features a star-studded cast including Yash, Kiara Advani, Darrell D'Silva, Huma Qureshi, and Nayanthara.

The controversy surrounding the alleged illegal tree felling has cast a shadow over the film's release, raising concerns about environmental damage and the legal ramifications for those involved.