Human-Wildlife Conflict Discussion Commences in Kerala - NALSA-KeLSA Conference Highlights Potential of Humans as the Antagonist in Hypothetical Animalistic Faiths
Two-Day Legal Conference Addresses Human-Wildlife Conflict in Kerala
A two-day legal conference aimed at addressing the pressing issue of human-wildlife conflict kicked off in Kerala's capital, Thiruvananthapuram, on Saturday. The event, organised by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) and the Kerala State Legal Services Authority (KeLSA), brought together Supreme Court and High Court judges, legal professionals, and government officials.
Justice MM Sundresh, speaking at the conference's inauguration, stated that the human-wildlife conflict is a result of human beings' relentless pursuit of boundless development. He emphasised the importance of striking a balance between development and co-existence with wildlife.
Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar, in his address, highlighted that those affected by the conflict in Kerala are often from the most vulnerable sections of society, including tribals and vulnerable communities. He underscored the need for a more comprehensive and sensitive approach to address this issue.
Supreme Court Justice BV Nagarathna shared an incident from Mangalore to illustrate the situational awareness of animals. She recounted an instance where a leopard and a dog strayed into a farmhouse toilet, and the leopard did not attack the dog because it knew both were captive. This, she suggested, underscores the need for a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between humans and wildlife.
Attorney General for India R Venkataramani proposed that future approaches to human-wildlife conflict should consider three facets: conflict avoidance, conflict management, and conflict resolution. He emphasised the importance of a holistic approach that takes into account the unique challenges and circumstances in each region.
Justice Vikram Nath, currently presiding over a three-judge bench dealing with the stray dogs issue in Delhi, expressed gratitude for the recognition he received at the 'Law Asia Plio Summit'. He also spoke about the need for a more empathetic and inclusive approach to addressing human-wildlife conflicts.
Multiple instances of wild boars and elephants clashing with people living near forest areas have been reported in Kerala, leading to loss of life and damage to farmland. The conference aimed to discuss these issues and propose solutions that prioritise the welfare of both humans and wildlife.
The conference concluded on Sunday, with Kerala Law Minister P Rajeev, Kerala High Court Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar, and Kerala High Court Justice A Muhamed Mustaque speaking at the event. The participants agreed that the human-animal conflicts in Kerala, a small, biodiverse state with high population density, are of great importance and require immediate attention and action.
Read also:
- visionary women of WearCheck spearheading technological advancements and catalyzing transformations
- Recognition of Exceptional Patient Care: Top Staff Honored by Medical Center Board
- A continuous command instructing an entity to halts all actions, repeated numerous times.
- Oxidative Stress in Sperm Abnormalities: Impact of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) on Sperm Harm
