Kochi: The Forest Department has found itself on the backfoot over the arrest of rapper Vedan (Hirandas Murali) as it has kicked up heated debates in the public sphere. Vedan was arrested for possession of a pendant embedded with a leopard tooth. Though it was the police who initially detained Vedan during a routine inspection, it was the Forest Department which registered case and carried out the arrest related to the leopard tooth. From the outset, there were criticisms from various quarters suggesting that the department had acted hastily in filing the case.

However, the controversy has somewhat subsided following a report from the Forest Department head to the Minister, affirming that all procedures, including the arrest, were carried out in accordance with law. Meanwhile, there may be disciplinary action concerning certain statements made by the investigating officer to the media, which were deemed inappropriate. The report submitted to the Minister by the Forest Department head also indicated that such comments should have been avoided.

The Forest Minister had earlier made it clear that the comments given to the media by the Forest Department official were unacceptable, and making public statements without government approval is a violation of the code of conduct for government employees. Consequently, sources say an explanation has been sought from several individuals, including Kodanad Forest Range Officer R. Atheesh.

Vedan was originally detained by the police with nine grams of ganja. During the inspection, a leopard tooth was also found, prompting the police to alert the Flying Squad of the Forest Department in Kochi. Upon investigation by the Flying Squad, it was confirmed that the object worn around Vedan’s neck was indeed a leopard tooth. Vedan admitted to this, following which the Forest Department in Kodanad was informed. After questioning, he was arrested and produced before the court. Vigilance officers from the Forest Department were also present.

Forest Department officials insist that only procedures mandated by law were followed. The leopard tooth seized from Vedan will be sent to a laboratory for detailed analysis. The court will undertake the necessary procedures for this.