In the wake of widespread public opposition, the Forest Department has resolved to withdraw the case filed against Mar George Punnakottil, the former head of the Kothamangalam Diocese. He had taken part in a mass protest advocating for the reopening of the Aluva-Munnar highway. The move follows significant backlash against the legal action initiated against the bishop and other demonstrators.

A high-level meeting, attended by key officials and public figures including Idukki MP Adv. Dean Kuriakose and Kothamangalam MLA Antony John, concluded that no further legal proceedings would be pursued against Mar Punnakottil and others involved in the protest held on March 16 at Pooyamkutty. Participants included clergy, local leaders, and citizens united in their demand for access to the highway.

The meeting, convened in the office of the Minister of Industries, instructed the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Forest Management), Rajesh Raveendran IFS, to compile a detailed report addressing the ongoing disputes and concerns related to the Aluva-Munnar road. The report is expected to be completed and submitted within three months.

The protest, known as the Jana Munnetta Yatra, was driven by the demand to reclaim public access to the Aluva-Munnar highway—historically used by locals—challenging what protesters described as the Forest Department's unjust roadblocks and restrictions. Citizens, including Mar Punnakottil, rallied against what they perceived as authoritarian overreach, arguing that their livelihoods and freedom of movement had been severely impacted by forest encroachments and rising threats from wildlife.