Kerala Becomes First State to Amend Wildlife Protection Act to Tackle Human-Animal Conflict
Kerala has made history by becoming the first State in India to pass a law amending the Central Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The new legislation, called the Wildlife Protection (Kerala Amendment) Act, 2025, was passed by the Kerala Legislative Assembly on October 8, 2025. The Bill now awaits the President’s assent before it becomes law.
This amendment aims to tackle the growing incidents of human-animal conflicts in Kerala, particularly in areas where people live close to forests. Wild boar attacks and elephant encounters have increasingly led to loss of lives and damage to crops, making this issue a serious concern for both rural communities and the State government.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced the development on X (formerly Twitter), calling it a major step toward ensuring justice for communities living near forest regions. He said the reforms highlight Kerala’s commitment to protecting both human life and wildlife, promoting peaceful coexistence between people and nature.
The Bill gives new powers to the Chief Wildlife Warden, allowing them to order the shooting, tranquilisation, capture, or relocation of any wild animal that attacks humans or strays into populated areas. It also authorises immediate action upon a report from the District Collector or Chief Conservator of Forests.
According to the new clause:
If a wild animal attacks a person and causes serious injury, or is found in a public or residential area, the Chief Wildlife Warden may issue a written order—stating reasons—to permit killing, tranquilising, capturing, or relocating the animal without delay.
Additionally, the amendment empowers the Chief Wildlife Warden to control the population of wild animals using methods other than killing, to prevent future conflicts.
The Bill also allows the State government to declare certain animals listed under Schedule II of the Central Act (which includes species like monitor lizards, cobras, mongooses, rat snakes, and civets) as vermin for limited periods, giving authorities flexibility to manage wildlife that pose risks to human settlements.
This move comes as the Kerala High Court continues to monitor the issue under a suo motu case on animal welfare, reflecting growing judicial concern over the balance between conservation and community safety.
The Wildlife Protection (Kerala Amendment) Act, 2025, is expected to serve as a model for other States grappling with similar issues of human-wildlife conflict, signalling Kerala’s proactive approach to coexisting with nature responsibly and safely.
