Thodupuzha: In what appears to be a retaliatory move, the Forest Department has intensified its stance in the controversial Thommankuthu cross incident by issuing summons to local residents. The action comes on the heels of a Tahsildar's report confirming that the land where the cross stood falls within a residential zone, not forest land — a determination that dealt a serious blow to the Forest Department's earlier claims.

In response, authorities have served notices to individuals allegedly involved in erecting the cross in the Naranganam area. The notice, issued under Section 179(1) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, directs recipients to appear before the Investigating Officer, Range Officer T.K. Manoj, within 15 days. The purpose of the summons is to collect further evidence, including documents and statements related to the ongoing case.

Although the notice was dated May 16, it was only distributed in person yesterday when forest personnel visited the homes of several residents. This move has raised eyebrows, especially considering that the case — initially filed after the Forest Department removed the cross — had seen little activity until now. Those named in the case had not previously received any formal communication or summons.

The situation took a decisive turn after a public outcry led to a letter being sent to the Chief Minister demanding an impartial investigation. Following this, a detailed inquiry was conducted, and the findings were submitted to the District Collector. Acting on the Collector’s direction, Thodupuzha Tahsildar conducted a site inspection and later confirmed during a hearing chaired by the Deputy Collector that the disputed land is indeed residential.

This revelation has undermined the Forest Department’s assertion that the land is part of the forest zone. In light of this setback, the Department's latest move to initiate proceedings under the new legal framework is being interpreted by many as a reactionary step to regain control over the narrative.

Locals see the renewed legal pressure as an attempt to intimidate residents and deflect attention from the departmental overreach in removing the cross without proper verification. The issue has now taken on wider political and communal dimensions, drawing support from various social and religious groups.

With both the Revenue and Forest Departments now embroiled in the dispute, a joint inspection of the site has been proposed to reach a conclusive resolution. The final report is expected to be presented to the Collector in the coming days, which could determine the trajectory of the case — and possibly the future of land classification in the region.