Kerala Faces Rising Human-Animal Conflict: Calls for Wildlife Act Amendments
In the serene landscapes of Kerala’s Idukki and Wayanad districts, a somber reality lurks – the surge in human-animal conflicts has claimed nine lives and injured several others in the past three months. Tragic encounters with elephants, tigers, and wild boars have left a trail of devastation, impacting both livelihoods and cherished companions.
As the state grapples with this pressing issue, the debate intensifies in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections. The ruling Left Democratic Front and the opposition United Democratic Front advocate for amendments to the Wildlife Act of 1972, stressing the need to address the escalating conflict.
Proposed amendments seek to streamline procedures for managing wild animals posing threats to human life, transferring authority from the Chief Wildlife Warden to Chief Conservators of Forests. Former Idukki MP Joice George underscores the importance of maintaining a delicate prey-predator balance for sustainable wildlife management.
In contrast, the BJP-led central government asserts that existing provisions adequately address the situation, emphasizing recent amendments prioritizing protection for residential areas. However, Congress leader Samshad Marakkar highlights the urgency of updating laws to adapt to current challenges, criticizing both state and central governments for their handling of wildlife issues.
Echoing concerns, the Catholic Church calls for practical solutions, urging authorities to empower local communities to address the menace. Fr Jins Karackattu of the Idukki diocese stresses the need for collaborative efforts between the state and central governments to devise long-term solutions.
Despite political rhetoric, forest officials caution against hasty conclusions, citing challenges in obtaining accurate population data. While demands for legislative reforms echo across Kerala, the complexities of human-wildlife coexistence underscore the need for holistic strategies guided by scientific insights and community participation.
