Youths face legal action for uprooting Neelakurinji plants in Munnar
The Kerala Forest Department has registered cases against two individuals for uprooting protected Neelakurinji plants in Munnar for social media content. Authorities warn that such destruction threatens the local extinction of the rare species, which only blooms every 12 years.
Why it matters
It underscores the conflict between social media 'clout-chasing' and environmental conservation, highlighting the legal consequences of damaging protected ecosystems.
The Forest department on Saturday (September 5, 2026) registered cases against two youths for allegedly destroying Neelakurinji ( Strobilanthes kunthiana ) plants in the Munnar hills. According to Munnar Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Abhay Yadav, two youths posted photos and videos on Instagram with uprooted Neelakurinji flowers.
Mr. Yadav said the cases were registered under the Devikulam and Munnar forest ranges in the district. “The Forest department is trying to identify the youths and pinpoint the location where the Neelakurinji plants were uprooted. Neelakurinji is a scheduled species under the Wildlife Protection Act; destroying it can attract a prison term of up to three years, a fine of up to ₹25,000, or both,” said Mr. Yadav.
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