Kumali: Despite acquiring the label of "notorious" due to its involvement in multiple killings and subsequent expulsion from its own territory, the wild tusker Arikomban has managed to capture the affection of numerous locals in the area. Recently autorickshaw drivers at Anakkara Idukki came together to form a fans association solely dedicated to Arikomban and even prominently placed a flex board praising the jumbo.  

The auto rickshaw drivers in B Stand reminded the public that the forest is for the wild animals. “The association has been formed in protest against humans who invade and settle in the habitat of Arikomban and unfairly ousted the elephant from its own domain,” said the drivers.

They also marked their strong protest against the harassment the tusker had to go through during the translocation process.