Following the unfortunate incident involving the tragic demise of Vakeri resident Prajeesh, whose half-eaten body was discovered in a forested area in Kalpetta, Wayanad on December 9, the Kerala Forest Minister AK Saseendran announced steps against the tiger believed to be responsible for the attack.
The identified tiger, a 13-year-old male named WWL 45 according to the forest department’s database, has been categorized as a man-eater. The incident occurred while Prajeesh was reportedly collecting grass for his cattle, suspected to have fallen prey to the tiger.
Local residents, alarmed by the incident, alleged the tiger’s status as a man-eater, demanding authorities to take immediate action by eliminating the animal.
Minister Saseendran revealed that the Chief Wildlife Warden has sanctioned an order to eliminate the tiger, prompting heightened surveillance with the deployment of 25 cameras and the preparation of two cages for the operation.
To ensure the success of the operation, five patrol teams comprising shooters and doctors have been deployed in the area. Saseendran urged public cooperation with the officials’ efforts.
This decision follows the Kerala High Court’s dismissal of a plea opposing the government’s directive to eliminate the tiger if tranquilization or capture proves unsuccessful. The court deemed the petition, filed by Animals and Nature Ethics Community (ANEC), as potentially more focused on publicity rather than the public interest, imposing a fine of ₹25,000 on the organization.
Minister Saseendran appreciated the court’s judgment, emphasizing the need to address the immediate concerns regarding the safety of residents in the area.
Sources By Agencies