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Humans being increasingly attacked by animals: Kerala CM
Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy expressed concern over growing
incidents of man-animal conflict as evidenced by increasing animal
attacks on humans.
"The man-animal conflict is increasing daily
and it's more seen in the areas bordering the forests. In those areas
it's the wild animals which not only cause destruction to crops but also
attack human beings. And in cities, towns and villages, human beings
are attacked by stray dogs," Chandy told reporters on Wednesday after
the weekly cabinet meeting.
"No doubt human life is very
precious and hence we have amended laws that allow use of licensed
firearms for one's own safety for those living in the forest bordering
areas. The very fact that this man-animal conflict has increased is the
reason that we have taken numerous steps to protect the wildlife and as a
result their population in the forests has gone up and now they are
coming out and attacking human beings," said Chandy.
The law
prevents killing of stray dogs, and numerous civic bodies in the state
are facing the wrath of the public for being unable to contain the stray
dog menace.
"As far as I know, sterilisation of dogs is all
what one can do, but it's doubtful if that's a solution. This is a
serious issue and we all know the gravity of the situation as numerous
people are being bitten," said Chandy.
Meanwhile, a reporter
mentioned human beings also biting human beings as happened in the
assembly last week (when Left opposition legislator Jameela Prakasham
allegedly bit Congress legislator K.Sivadasan Nair on his shoulder on
March 13).
"I have only spoken of attacks taking place in the
forest areas and dogs biting people. I have never mentioned the word
assembly at all," said Chandy.