Human-Wildlife Conflict: Kerala High Court Directs Strict Surveillance Of Rogue Elephant 'KM1', Says Authorities Must Prevent Further Mishaps

The Kerala High Court on Friday (8 May) has directed State authorities to closely monitor a wild elephant identified as “KM1” following concerns over its movement near Aralam Farm and adjoining tribal settlements in Kannur district.A Division Bench comprising Justice Devan Ramachandran and Justice Easwaran S passed the interim order while considering a batch of writ petitions concerning the human-wildlife conflict in Wayanad and Aralam."In such circumstances, we direct the competent authority of the Government to ensure that the elephant in question is properly monitored; and that apposite response is offered to this Court in I.A. No. 3 of 2026, by the next posting date. We make it clear that every effort should be taken to ensure that no further mishaps are caused on account of movement of the elephant; and the competent Authorities be on watch and surveillance to ensure this.Though unnecessary, we deem it appropriate to remind the Authorities that every life is precious and that citizens be protected through strict control and surveillance, as necessary". The Court has been closely monitoring the human-wildlife conflict in Wayanad and Aralam and interim orders have been periodically passed to monitor the conflict. The petitioner informed the vacation Bench that he had moved interlocutory application highlighting the threat posed by elephant “KM1”, which was allegedly sighted in the vicinity of Aralam Farm and nearby tribal areas and was known to have attacked people in the past.The Court had previously criticised the State over the condition of Aralam Farm in Kannur District in light of the death of a person belonging to tribal community in an elephant attack. The Counsel appearing for the Aralam Farm also supported the petitioner's submissions regarding the elephant's presence and the associated risks.Taking note of the concerns, the Court directed the competent government authority to ensure continuous monitoring of the elephant and to place an appropriate response before the Court by the next posting date.The Bench further emphasized the need for preventive measures to avoid any untoward incidents arising from the elephant's movement. “We make it clear that every effort should be taken to ensure that no further mishaps are caused on account of movement of the elephant; and the competent Authorities be on watch and surveillance to ensure this. Though unnecessary, we deem it appropriate to remind the Authorities that every life is precious and that citizens be protected through strict control and surveillance, as necessary.” Court noted. The matter has been posted for further consideration on May 20. Case Title : Baiju Paul Mathews v State of Kerala and connected caseCase No : WP(C) 7858/ 2025 and connected caseParty in person.Counsel for Respondents - T R Harikumar, Arjun Raghavan, Nirmal S, V Harish, Nagaraj NaryananClick Here To Read/ Download Interim Order

Human-Wildlife Conflict: Kerala High Court Directs Strict Surveillance Of Rogue Elephant 'KM1', Says Authorities Must Prevent Further Mishaps

Anamika MJ

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