Kerala HC demands detailed action plan on animal attacks

The Kerala High Court expressed disappointment with the state government's response regarding animal attacks at the Aralam farm. The court noted that the government did not provide details about its action plan to address the human-animal conflict in its affidavit. The court, led by Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar, instructed the government to submit an updated affidavit. This document should include specific details about the plan to reduce conflicts between humans and animals at the farm. This issue arose from a public interest petition filed by Baiju Paul Mathews. He asked for steps to be taken to prevent wild animal attacks at the Aralam farm. The government's lawyer mentioned that a committee, led by the Forest Range Officer, was set up during a meeting held by the Forest Minister. However, the court pointed out that it was unclear whether the committee formed was based on customary instructions or official directions. It also noted the absence of expert advice in creating the action plan. The government assured the court that efforts were ongoing and the situation was under control, but the court emphasized that mere oral statements were insufficient. The details must be included in the additional affidavit.