Human-wildlife conflict: Opposition stages walkout in Kerala Assembly accusing LDF govt of ‘apathy’ towards high-range communities
The Hindu
UDF walks out of Kerala Assembly accusing LDF government of indifference towards high-range communities amid wildlife conflict.
The Opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) staged a walkout in the Kerala Assembly on Thursday (January 23, 2025) accusing the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government of “indifference” towards high-range communities confronted with rising incidents of human-wildlife conflict, even as Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran stressed the need for overhauling existing Central and State laws governing forests and wildlife.
Mr. Saseendran said Central and State forest laws needed amendments that prove useful to the people. At the same time, the government would initiate measures in this regard only with the public consent and keeping in mind the welfare of the farming community, he said.
He further said wild animals were exiting forest areas with wounds, pointing to the involvement of an “apolitical organisation.”
Mr. Saseendran’s stand on legislation gains relevance in the context of the recent Cabinet decision to drop a move to introduce the contentious Kerala Forest Amendment (Bill), 2024 in the Assembly following protests.
“The existing law (Kerala Forest Act) dates back to 1961. I don’t think you will take the stand that it does not require timely reform,” Mr. Saseendran said, adding that the Oommen Chandy-led UDF government took the first step in this regard in 2013.
Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan said Mr. Saseendran’s stand on the matter was, in fact, “contradictory” to what Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said when deciding to withdraw the Bill.
Mr. Satheesan announced the walkout after Speaker A.N. Shamseer declined an adjournment motion to halt the day’s business to discuss the plight of high-range communities with specific reference to the recent deaths of Sarojini, 52, a tribal woman from Uchakkulam hamlet near Nilambur, and Eldhose of Kothamangalam in elephant attacks.
MLA Ramesh Bandisidde Gowda plans for Maga Masa Hunnime programme at Sri Nimishamba Temple with safety measures.
Road-roller theft unravels inter-State TMT bars racket
Complete Lendi project by end of 2025-26: Uttam to engineers
Central teams inspect paddy procurement sites in Mayiladuthurai and Nagapattinam districts, assessing moisture levels post-rain damage.
Abhilash Shetty, a rising fast-bowler from Karnataka, impresses with 17 wickets in Vijay Hazare Trophy and First Class debut.
Officials appreciate helmet-wearing motorists during Road Safety Month with roses, emphasizing importance of road safety practices.
Farmers from Udangudi staged a walkout during the grievance redress meeting at the Collectorate on Thursday, opposing the acquisition of agricultural land for forming industrial and propellent park
Stalwarts of our MNCs recommending that employees work 70 to 90 hours at work every week ignore health implications of undertaking such long hours of work
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday announced that from the next financial year, a market system for organic products will be implemented in Karnataka’s Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMC). He was speaking at the inauguration of the International Trade Fair - Organics and Millets 2025.
Join VIT's webinar on 'How AI Is Reshaping the Future' with experts discussing AI trends and industry alignment.
Rama Sene activists attack salon in Mangaluru, arrested by police; condemned by ministers for moral policing.
Andhra Pradesh government is keen on developing Visakhapatnam as the best tourist destination, says APTDC Managing Director
Annual flower show at Raja Seat in Madikeri featuring unique floral creations, children's activities, and exhibition until January 27.
Former CBI Joint Director V.V. Lakshminarayana supports merging Vizag Steel with SAIL for revival, demands government intervention for projects.
Srisailam temple staff lead cleanliness drive in temple town as part of Swacch Srisailam initiative.
Annual Suttur Jathra Mahotsava from January 26-31 features religious, cultural events, mass marriage, academic programs, traditional sports, and more.
Temperature drops in Agency areas of Alluri Sitharama Raju district and outskirts of Visakhapatnam, reaching as low as 4.6°C.
Artist Soumyadeep Roy explores the legacy of Wajid Ali Shah through art, lectures, and exhibitions in Kolkata and Lucknow.