Palakkad: Minister of forest AK Saseendran, on Thursday, blocked the forest department from registering a case against Babu, who was trapped in a crevice on Cheradu Koormbachi hills in Malampuzha for allegedly trespassing the protected forest range. The minister stated that the situation will be discussed with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and forest officials. 

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"It has been pointed out that there is a legal issue in the matter. Due to the legal problem, the question would be raised by the public whether it is appropriate to take the action. Therefore, the situation needs to be assessed," the minister said. 

He added that the government is sympathetic to Babu and his family for his plight. Therefore we are trying to find a solution. An action against Babu will not be accepted by the public, he added.

He stated that the situation will be assessed after discussing the matter with the Principal Secretary, Forest Department, Head of Forest Department and Wildlife Chief Warden. 

"Preliminary information is that Babu and others are not permitted to go to the forest as per the rules. However, it would not be appropriate to consider the rules in situations like this," he said. 

Earlier, the forest department had decided to file a case against Babu for trespassing in the protected forest area. The forest department has decided to file a case against Babu under section 27 of the Kerala Forest Act. Cheradu Koormbachi hills on which Babu trekked is included in the protected forest region. People are not permitted to enter this region without  permission.