Human-Animal Conflicts must be Addressed Expeditiously- Kerala HC

Case: Gaurav Tewari v Union of India

Bench: Chief Justice S Manikumar and Justice Shaji P Chaly

Human-animal conflicts must be addressed expeditiously, the Kerala High Court observed recently. The bench opined that even though the guidelines framed in this regard seem to be in the process, more proposals and action are needed to address the issue.

A petition was being heard in the Court seeking protection for wildlife living in the forest, as well as a direction for the government to take measures to prevent attacks on wildlife.

The petitioner submitted that he was prompted to approach the HC after a 2020 incident, where a pregnant elephant died of injuries caused due to eating a pineapple filled with crackers. The petitioner argued that the State is bound to protect the wildlife of the country, and Article 51A Part IV A of the Constitution casts such duties on every citizen of the country.

Based on the guidelines for Management of Human Elephant Conflicts 2017, the Chief Wildlife Warden submitted that appropriate measures are being taken to reduce human-wildlife conflict. Solar-powered fences, elephant-proof walls, crash guard rope fencing, etc., are some of the measures taken to prevent wild elephants from entering human settlements and farms.

Further, it was stated that 15 Rapid Response Teams are deployed in highly prone areas to drive away wild animals straying into human settlements. Moreover, compensation is paid for death and injury due to wildlife attacks. 261 Jana Jagratha Smithies are formed in various Panchayaths bordering forest areas for resolving human-animal conflict.

The Court appreciated the measures but emphasized that they must be expedited.