Kerala is considering a controversial amendment to the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, that could allow the killing or capturing of wild animals causing serious harm to humans. Law Minister P Rajeeve announced this at a high-profile conference attended by Supreme Court and High Court judges, highlighting the urgency of human-wildlife conflicts.

“If an elephant or tiger strays into populated areas, waiting for clearance from top forest authorities is impractical,” Rajeeve stressed. He emphasized that marginalized communities and small farmers are the worst affected by these incidents. Earlier this year, the Kerala Assembly unanimously urged the Union Government to empower chief conservators of forests to take emergency measures.

Experts note that amending a central law is not easy. Parliament or a presidential-approved ordinance would be required for such an amendment. Meanwhile, the government can propose it in the state assembly, but President’s assent is essential.

Rajeeve also insisted on a balanced approach, stressing that human life must be protected while recognizing the ecological value of wildlife. With 500 human lives lost in five years due to human-wildlife conflict, Kerala’s move is sparking a national debate.