Gaur attack death fuels farmers’ ire at Vilangad in Keralam’s Kozhikode
Farmers in Kerala's Kozhikode district are protesting against the Forest department following a fatal wild gaur attack. They argue that authorities have failed to implement necessary preventive measures and provide adequate compensation for human-wildlife conflicts.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the growing tension between agricultural livelihoods and wildlife conservation efforts in rural India, emphasizing the need for better infrastructure and policy intervention.
The death of 40-year-old court employee V.C. Sunil in an attack by a wild gaur at Vilangad in Keralam’s Kozhikode district has triggered protests by upland farmers’ organisations, who have accused the Forest department of failing to prevent the recurring human-wildlife conflicts and protect agricultural livelihoods.
Farmers who took out a protest march in Vilangad on Saturday (August 30, 2026) alleged that the functioning of Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) and forest watchers was inadequate. They also accused several senior Forest department officers of failing to respond effectively to the concerns of farmers in areas frequently affected by wild animal incursions.
“Proposals to construct hanging power fences and trenches to prevent wild animals from entering vulnerable areas are still pending at several locations in Vanimel panchayat. Forest officials are citing shortage of funds or delays in approval for various preventive measures,” said T. Varghese, a farmer from Vilangad.
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