THE Kerala Forest Amendment Bill, notified by the government on November 1, has triggered an outrage among farmers, who allege that the bill giving unbridled power to forest officers will add to the misery of people living on forest fringes.
The Kerala Independent Farmers' Association (KIFA) will launch a statewide protest on Friday demanding withdrawal of the bill, while the Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council (KCBC) issued a statement expressing concern over the provisions giving unlimited powers to forest officers.
Besides proposing a fivefold hike on fines imposed for forest offences, the bill gives power to the forest beat officer to search a house and arrest a person without a warrant. Also, a forest section officer can arrest a person who obstructs him or his subordinates in the discharge of duties. The bill also proposes action against fishing in rivers flowing near the forest and against garbage dumping in such areas.
This story is from the December 17, 2024 edition of The New Indian Express Kannur.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 17, 2024 edition of The New Indian Express Kannur.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
I Know How to Play Real Characters
Jennifer Lopez speaks to Katie Ellis on how Unstoppable made her realise that she can overcome anything in life
Of Our Non-violent Ancestors
Pattanaik provides a comprehensive insight into the mysterious world of the Harappan civilisation
The Corrosive Power of Pride
Pride fosters a sense of superiority that harms relationships, distorts the mind, and impedes personal and spiritual growth
Market on the Sands
The Rathgama Wella Fish Market
Market on the Sands
The Rathgama Wella Fish Market
Stop Inane and Diversionary Debates, and Focus on What Really Matters
Acute Angle
Stepping Across the Worry Lines
The Raghu Dixit Project launches a new album Shakkar as a vernacular statement about India and diversity
Untangled Threads He Weaves
An embroiderer who grew up poor is a celebrity in demand with collectors and artists
Every Woman's Brushstrokes
A beautiful blue and pink-hued sky surrounded by lush greenery. Within this is a tree with specks of orange and yellow, besides which is a bed where a woman is sleeping her flowing tresses falling into the foliage.
2032 Olympics: Pause & Effect
Since the time it was announced as host city for 2032 Olympics, the road so far has been far from ideal for Brisbane and Queensland. Uncertainty over venues and spiralling costs have led to some confusion. With the 100-day review nearing completion, Gomesh S finds out how the city is gearing up for 2032 Summer Games...
