In a striking critique of Kerala's handling of escalating human-wildlife conflicts, Thalassery Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany has voiced deep frustration over the government's inaction. Speaking at the Catholic Congress International Conference in Palakkad, he remarked that "talking to a tiger or leopard about to attack is more effective than talking to the government," highlighting the perceived futility in seeking governmental intervention.

The Archbishop's comments come in the wake of alarming statistics: 924 individuals have reportedly lost their lives to wildlife attacks in Kerala. He accused the forest department of negligence, stating that despite substantial funding, there has been no record of the department saving even a single person from such attacks. He further criticized the department for allegedly intruding into farmers' homes under the pretext of wildlife management, suggesting an overreach of authority.

The situation is particularly dire in regions like Wayanad, where frequent sightings of tigers and leopards have instilled fear among villagers, disrupting daily life and agricultural activities. In response to similar issues, states like Madhya Pradesh have initiated substantial measures, including a ₹145 crore plan to develop buffer zones around tiger reserves, aiming to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts.

Archbishop Pamplany's remarks underscore a growing demand for more effective and immediate governmental action to protect communities from wildlife threats, emphasizing the need for accountability and proactive measures in addressing this pressing issue.