Kannur: Protests are ongoing in Aralam following the tragic incident in which a couple was killed by an elephant. Locals blocked the road and prevented the ambulance carrying the victims’ bodies from reaching their home. They placed trees and rocks on the road to obstruct the vehicles, while continuing their protest.
In a related incident, Youth Congress activists obstructed the vehicle of Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran, who had arrived to participate in an all-party meeting at the Aralam Panchayat office. While the protestors were showing their dissent, some climbed onto the bonnet of the minister's official vehicle to demonstrate their opposition.
The police arrested the protestors and cleared the road, allowing the minister to reach the Panchayat office. Tensions in the area remain high, with the District Collector and Sub-Collector both visiting the location. The locals have demanded that Minister A.K. Saseendran personally address the issue and provide assurances for a resolution. A significant police presence has been deployed in the region to maintain order.
The incident occurred on Sunday evening when a couple, identified as Velli and his wife Leela, were killed by an elephant in the 13th block of Karikkumukku, near the forest. The couple was collecting cashews when the elephant attacked, trampling them. The attack took place in a residential area.
Due to the elephant's presence near the bodies, it was initially impossible to remove the victims' remains. The situation led to major chaos in the region.
Later in the evening, Sub-Collector Karthik Panigrahi and MLA Sunny Joseph attempted to negotiate with the protestors. However, tensions escalated, and there were attempts to block and physically obstruct them. The police had to use force to clear the protestors and successfully rescued both officials by 11 p.m. that night. It was only by 11.30 p.m. that the bodies were finally taken away from the scene.
The region remains on edge, with continued protests reflecting the community’s outrage over the tragic incident.
Published: 24 Feb 2025, 07:59 pm IST
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