Cardinal George Alencherry, head of the Syro-Malabar Church has termed as “a shame” the increasing cases of wild animals killing humans in the southern Indian state of Kerala.
“Incidents of wild animals entering villages and killing and injuring humans are on the rise,” laments the cardinal’s May 19 press statement that cited wild buffalos killing three people on May 18 at different places in the state.
A farmer Thomas Plavanakuzhili, a resident of Erumeli Kannamela area, was attacked by a wild buffalo when he was in his rubber plantation.
One Chackochan was attacked by another wild buffalo when he was sitting on the verandah of his house. Around the same time, Samuel Varghese, a resident of Kollam Anchal, was killed in a wild buffalo attack.
“Similar incidents are happening in many places. This is an absolute disgrace to a civilized society,” said the cardinal’s statement.
The prelate wants the government to take immediate steps to control wild animals that threaten humans and protect human life.
“The complacency of those responsible in this regard is objectionable. It is unjustifiable to deny humans the respect, and protection that is given to wild animals.”
The cardinal wants the government to make the necessary legislation instead of issuing regular statements announcing meager financial aid.
“Legal measures taken in other developed countries to protect wild animals and control the dangerous increase in their numbers should be a model for our country,” he added.