Humans being increasingly attacked by animals: Kerala CM

Thiruvananthapuram, March 25 (IANS) 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.