Kochi: Wayanad residents concerned about frequent wild elephant attacks received assurance from Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan on Monday. He pledged to take up the issue with both the State and Central governments, promising to do everything within his capacity to address the problem.
Governor Khan, during a visit to Wayanad district, assured the affected families that he would raise their concerns with the relevant authorities. He emphasized the need for non-violent means of seeking attention from authorities, stating that violence undermines democracy and civilized behavior.
Expressing his sorrow and solidarity with the affected families, Governor Khan visited the homes of the victims, including the family of Ajeesh, who lost his life in one of the recent elephant attacks. He also paid respects to VP Paul, a Forest Department watcher who was trampled to death by a wild elephant.
Governor Khan explained that his visit was delayed by a day at the request of the district administration, who deemed the situation uncomfortable earlier. He reiterated his commitment to supporting the affected families during their time of grief.
In response to the incidents, the Kerala government announced compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the victims' families and pledged to provide a job to one family member of each deceased person. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has instructed officials to convene a high-level meeting in Wayanad on February 20 to address wildlife-related issues.
The meeting will be attended by ministers from the Revenue, Forest, and Local Self-Government Departments, along with representatives of local bodies and high-level officials. Authorities have also arrested two individuals in Pulpally following incidents of violence linked to the recent elephant attacks. The situation in Wayanad remains tense as authorities work to address the growing concern over wildlife-related incidents.
PM Modi Boosts Education Sector, Will inaugurate three new IIM's tomorrow
India's Enhanced Development Assistance to Maldives: Expenditure Surges to ₹771 Crore