Kerala HC orders strict surveillance on wild elephant near Aralam tribal areas

The Kerala High Court on Friday directed the state government to closely monitor a wild elephant named KM1, which has been moving near the Aralam farm and adjoining tribal settlements in Kannur district. Petitioner Baiju Paul Mathews P M informed the Bench that the elephant had been spotted near the Aralam farm and neighbouring tribal regions and was known to have attacked people in the past.

The Kerala High Court on Friday directed the state government to closely monitor a wild elephant named ''KM1'', which has been moving near the Aralam farm and adjoining tribal settlements in Kannur district. A division bench comprising Devan Ramachandran and Easwaran S issued the direction after concerns were raised before the court about the elephant's movement in populated areas. Petitioner Baiju Paul Mathews P M informed the Bench that the elephant had been spotted near the Aralam farm and neighbouring tribal regions and was known to have attacked people in the past. Counsel for the Aralam farm supported the submissions made by the petitioner. Taking note of the concerns, the court directed the state forest department to ensure that the elephant is ''properly monitored'' and asked the authorities to submit a response before the next hearing. The bench also stressed the need for constant vigilance to avoid any further danger to residents. ''We make it clear that every effort should be taken to ensure that no further mishaps are caused on account of the movement of the elephant, and the competent authorities should be on watch and surveillance to ensure this,'' the court said. Though it termed the observation ''unnecessary'', the court further reminded the authorities of their responsibility to protect human life. ''Every life is precious, and citizens must be protected through strict control and surveillance, as necessary,'' the bench observed. The case has been posted for further consideration on May 20, 2026.