Kozhikode: The Minister for Forest, AK Saseendran, dismissed the controversies surrounding the puja performed to welcome the wild tusker, Arikomban, to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kumily. The minister explained that the puja was conducted in accordance with the customs prevalent in the region and was intended to promote the good health of the elephant.

The wild elephant that created panic in Chinnakanal was tranquilized and later translocated to Periyar Tiger Reserve in the wee hours of Sunday. The puja was performed while the truck carrying the tusker entered the forest via the gateway of Managaladevi temple in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. 

“Such rituals are being performed as per the customs in each region. The puja was performed based on the interests of the community. It has no other motive. The puja might have been done for the elephant’s health,” said the minister.