Wild animals posing threat to life should be eliminated; Kerala Assembly passes resolution

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In the wake of the increasing incidents of human-animal conflicts in the state, the Kerala Assembly on Wednesday unanimously passed a resolution demanding the Centre to amend Section 62 of the Wildlife Protection Act to eliminate wild animals that pose a threat to human life and property. The resolution was moved by Forest Minister AK Saseendran.

The resolution stated that the Wildlife Protection Act, which contains stringent provisions to prevent the destruction and control of harmful wild animals entering populated areas, rules and norms should be amended in a chronicled manner by incorporating practical provisions.

The conditions for people to live peacefully without fear must be maintained. The resolution was passed by accepting a few amendments by the opposition members. However, the suggestions, such as urging the Centre to provide Rs 50 lakh as compensation to the families of those killed in wildlife attacks, were not accepted.

Wild boar should be declared a vermin
1. The resolution stated that the Chief Forest Conservators should be empowered to order the shooting of wild animals if they threaten the lives and property of the people. At present, only the Chief Wildlife Warden can issue such an order.
2. Conditions should be created to prevent wildlife attacks. Wild Boar should be declared as a vermin under Section 62 of the Central Wildlife Protection Act.
3. Breeding of wild animals should be controlled to prevent wild animal population from increasing exponentially.