Kerala Forest Minister Criticizes Bishops for Calling for His Resignation
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Synopsis
Kerala Forest Minister <b>A.K. Saseendran</b> criticized the Bishops demanding his resignation after three locals were killed by wild animals in Wayanad. He rejected the political pressure, citing respect for the Bishops but expressing disappointment at their current stance. The region faces increasing man-animal conflict, leading to growing fears among residents.
Key Takeaways
- Minister A.K. Saseendran defends against resignation calls.
- Two Catholic bishops criticize the government's handling of wildlife issues.
- Wayanad faces increasing incidents of man-animal conflict.
- The local community is in distress due to wildlife threats.
- Political protests emerge in response to government inaction.
Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 13 (NationPress) Following the tragic deaths of three locals in Wayanad due to wild animal attacks, Kerala Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran expressed his frustration towards the Bishops who have demanded his resignation regarding this issue. Speaking to reporters ahead of his departure to the State Assembly, he firmly dismissed the idea of stepping down. “A resignation is merely a political demand. I have always held the bishops in high esteem and respected them greatly. Known for their comforting words, I now feel that this is no longer the case,” stated Saseendran.
On Wednesday, two Catholic bishops — Mar Remigiose Inchananiyil, Bishop of the Thamarassery Diocese, and Mar Jose Pulickal, Bishop of the Kanjirapally Diocese — strongly criticized Saseendran, insisting he resign due to his ineffectiveness in addressing the man-animal conflict.
The rising incidents of man-animal conflict have instilled fear among residents of the hilly region of Wayanad.
On February 11-12, two individuals tragically lost their lives as they were trampled by wild elephants in the district. Additionally, on January 24, a woman was killed by a tiger while collecting coffee beans.
The Catholic Church has been vocal in its criticism of the Pinarayi Vijayan administration, especially since many of its congregation reside in the hilly regions of Wayanad, Idukki, and parts of Pathanamthitta district. The farming community, predominantly Catholic, has been severely affected by the ongoing man-animal conflict.
On Thursday, the Congress-led UDF organized a shutdown in Wayanad to protest the Vijayan government's perceived indifference towards this critical issue.
Wayanad, bordered by the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, is enveloped by dense forests that house tigers, wild elephants, and wild boars, leaving residents—especially those living near forest boundaries—in constant fear.
