'Vedan is asset of Kerala, rapper will get the same justice given to Mohanlal and Suresh Gopi'; Forest Minister changes stand in tiger-tooth case

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Forest Minister A K Saseendran changed his stand on rapper Vedan’s tiger-tooth case. He said the officials of the forest department should respect the sentiments of the public. While talking to the media, the minister said that a little more caution was needed when handling the case of a famous singer like Hirandas Murali fondly known as Vedan.

‘We will examine whether there was any illegality in the case and whether there was any moral lapse. Vedan will also get the same justice given to actors Mohanlal and Suresh Gopi. The forest department has the responsibility to consider the sentiments of the public. If there is a need for corrections in the case, there is no obstacle in accepting them. He is a singer committed to the society and is an asset to the state,' the minister added.

However, the minister's response at the time of his arrest in the tiger-tooth case was different. The minister had responded then that Vedan was one who was under the attention of forest intelligence and that proper action would be taken.

Most probably there will be no further investigation in the tiger-tooth case for the time being. It is also reported that officials have expressed dissatisfaction with the statement of the forest minister. The officials responded that the case against Vedan was registered after obtaining permission from higher officials and that the minister's action demoralises the action of the force. The officials clarified that the minister also supported the action after the arrest.