Kerala Congress MLA Roji V. John has sparked controversy with his recent remarks on how to handle wild animals that enter populated areas, particularly elephants, tigers, and wild boars. Speaking at the UDF's ‘Malayora Jatha’ protest march in Angamaly, John suggested that these animals should experience physical pain as a deterrent to prevent future invasions into human settlements. His comments have raised strong reactions from animal rights groups, wildlife experts, and the public, who have criticized the idea of inflicting harm on wild animals as both unethical and ineffective in addressing the larger issue of human-animal conflict.
John's controversial statements were made in the context of a broader debate over the increasing frequency of wildlife-related incidents in Kerala, particularly in areas where human settlements are encroaching upon natural habitats. Farmers in hilly regions have reported growing concerns over wildlife attacks, which have led to loss of crops, property damage, and, in some cases, human fatalities. This has sparked calls for stronger measures to protect both wildlife and human interests, but the approach suggested by John has been met with widespread opposition for its cruelty and lack of practical benefits.
Earlier, another Congress MLA, Sunny Joseph, had drawn attention to wildlife-related issues by criticizing the existing rule requiring the burial of wild boars shot with licensed guns. Joseph, speaking at the same ‘Malayora Jatha’ protest march in Kannur, suggested that instead of burying the animals, they should be prepared for consumption with coconut oil, a remark that further fueled the ongoing controversy.
The UDF protest march was organized to highlight the difficulties faced by farmers in the hilly regions of Kerala, who are struggling to cope with the growing number of wildlife incursions and the subsequent financial burden these attacks place on their livelihoods. The protests also aimed to raise awareness about the need for effective policies that address the challenges of balancing wildlife conservation with the safety and economic well-being of rural communities.
The remarks by John and Joseph, however, have overshadowed the larger issue, diverting attention away from potential solutions and placing the UDF in the center of a heated debate about the humane treatment of animals and the responsibilities of lawmakers in crafting policies that consider both wildlife protection and human safety.
