Dissatisfaction in Forest Act amendment; Jose K. Mani to meet CM

Kottayam: Kerala Congress (M) has voiced strong opposition to the recent amendment to the Forest Act, labeling it as anti-farmer. Party Chairman Jose K. Mani plans to meet Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to personally convey the party’s opposition and share the concerns of those affected by the changes.

Kerala Congress (M) has consistently opposed the amendment, arguing that it grants excessive powers to forest department officials, which could adversely impact farmers. The party has demanded a reconsideration of the draft notification.

Mani has previously alleged that the amendment is driven by the ulterior motives of certain high-ranking IFS officials. He also highlighted ongoing complaints from farmers about organizations purchasing farmland near forest boundaries and transferring it to the Forest Department for monetary gain.

The meeting is expected to address these concerns and push for a more farmer-friendly approach to forest management policies in Kerala.