Independent MLA PV Anvar, representing Kerala’s Nilambur constituency, was arrested on Sunday for allegedly vandalizing the district forest office during a protest against the death of a tribal man, Mani, who was trampled by a wild elephant.
MLA Criticizes Government for Negligence
The incident followed Anvar’s strong criticism of the Kerala government and the forest department, accusing them of negligence in addressing human-wildlife conflicts. He alleged that the failure of wildlife officials to take effective measures led to the tragic death of Mani, a 37-year-old member of the Cholanaikkan tribal community.
“The life of a person has been lost. More lives continue to be in danger. There are no effective interventions or investigations by the forest department. Naturally, there would be protests,” Anvar stated.
He also criticized Forest Minister AK Saseendran for not visiting the area or consoling Mani’s family, further alleging intentional delays in conducting the postmortem.
Protest Turns Violent
Members of the Democratic Movement of Kerala (DMK), a social collective founded by Anvar, staged a demonstration outside the district forest office on Sunday. The protest escalated when 10 individuals, reportedly linked to the DMK, trespassed into the office and vandalized property.
Nilambur police arrested Anvar and 10 others involved under sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.
Tragic Death of Mani
The incident that sparked the protest occurred on Saturday evening in the Karulai forest range. Mani and six others were walking through the Poochappara settlement after dropping Mani’s children at a tribal hostel. Around 6:45 pm, a wild elephant attacked the group.
While the others, including Mani’s five-year-old child, managed to escape, Mani was critically injured. He was rushed to a government hospital in Nilambur, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Call for Action
The death of Mani has intensified calls for the government and forest department to take immediate steps to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts in tribal areas. Anvar’s arrest has further fueled the controversy, with supporters arguing that his actions were driven by frustration over systemic failures.
The incident underscores the urgent need for effective strategies to protect vulnerable communities while managing wildlife habitats.
Sources By Agencies
