Congress Slams Kerala Govt Over Wild Animal Attacks; Launches ‘Yatra’ in Hilly Regions

GG News Bureau
Thiruvananthapuram, 26th Jan. The opposition Congress in Kerala has accused the Left-led state government of being “complacent” in addressing the issue of wild animal attacks, which have claimed around 1,000 lives and left over 8,000 injured in the past 6-7 years. Speaking to reporters, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan highlighted the alarming statistics, including the destruction of crops on over 10,000 hectares of land and the killing of more than 5,000 cattle.

Satheesan criticized the government’s inaction, alleging that no measures like fencing to prevent wild animal encroachments have been implemented. He also pointed out the lack of compensation for over 4,000 affected individuals and insufficient arrangements for treating those seriously injured.

To address these concerns, Congress has initiated a ‘yatra’ starting Saturday from Kannur district. The campaign aims to support residents of hilly regions living in fear and formulate a concrete plan to resolve these issues.

Satheesan stated that the ‘yatra’ would also focus on withdrawing the now-scrapped Bill to amend the Kerala Forest Act and highlight the alleged failure of the agriculture sector and buffer zone-related concerns.

However, Kerala Forest Minister A K Saseendran dismissed the initiative, claiming it was a politically motivated attempt to gain mileage.

The Congress leader emphasized the need for changes in the Wildlife Act, promising to prepare a detailed proposal after the completion of the ‘yatra.’

The issue of human-wildlife conflict remains a critical concern in Kerala’s hilly regions, with residents urging prompt action to ensure their safety and livelihoods.