Kothamangalam: As the people of Kerala continue to grapple with escalating threats from wild animals, the Kothamangalam Diocese Vigilance Committee has strongly criticized the Forest Department for what it calls “anti-people” and aggressive actions against communities living along forest borders. The committee accused the department of showing a reluctance toward meaningful solutions while engaging in encroachments and behavior that harm the rights and sentiments of local residents.

In a public statement, the committee condemned the Forest Department’s controversial demolition of a cross in Thommankuthu — a religious symbol reportedly standing on land held by the church for decades. They described this as a direct affront to religious sentiments. The situation escalated further when police cases were filed against individuals, including the Vicar General of the Diocese, who had led a peaceful Good Friday procession at the disputed site.

Despite church authorities submitting documents asserting ownership of the land, the Forest Department has not withdrawn the cases and, instead, has brought new charges against clergy members, local leaders, and residents. This, the committee argues, is an unacceptable escalation and an abuse of authority.

The Vigilance Committee warned that such continued provocation, especially in an already sensitive region, risks sparking serious public unrest. Emphasizing the need for immediate redress, the committee has urged both the Chief Minister and the Forest Minister to step in and halt the Forest Department’s ongoing actions, which they claim are unjust and detrimental to social harmony.