I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to bring your attention to a critical matter concerning the welfare and protection of wildlife, specifically the distressing situation of the elephant Arikomban in Kerala. I urgently request your intervention and necessary actions to save this majestic creature and ensure the preservation of its natural habitat.

Arikomban, an animal living harmoniously in its natural habitat alongside its herd in the Chinnakanal forest region of Kerala, was captured after being sedated with tranquillizing guns and relocated to another forest without receiving proper treatment for the infected and bleeding wounds sustained during the eviction. Upon regaining consciousness, Arikomban began wandering, searching for its land and companions while enduring the pain caused by its festering injuries.

To exacerbate the situation, people continue to chase Arikomban away wherever it goes, provoking him to exhibit aggression and portraying him as a dangerous animal and a threat to human life. Despite still recovering from the injuries caused by the initial capture, Arikomban has been tranquillized again and captured by Tamil Nadu authorities today (05/06/23), leaving his future uncertain. This heartbreaking scenario demands immediate attention to secure his life and his right to return to his birthplace. It is crucial to take action against the encroachment of forest lands by illegal settlers and developers in the forests of Kerala who convert them into human settlements and tourist attractions. The fundamental rights of wildlife must be protected, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure their well-being.

The story of Arikomban, also known as the Rice Tusker, is intertwined with the history of its birthplace, the land where its ancestors have lived for centuries. Currently known as 301 Colony, this area was originally the natural habitat of elephants. However, in 2002, despite strong objections from environmental experts, the ruling government of Kerala decided to settle 301 tribal families in this area, disregarding the fact that it was the elephants' natural habitat and hindered their access to water sources.

Over time, 98% of the settlers realized the unsustainability of living in the elephant habitat and left the area after receiving compensation. The remaining few have submitted their applications for compensation and are awaiting the opportunity to leave. However, the issue at hand extends beyond the settlement itself. The area surrounding 301 Colony is Reserve Forest Land, which, by law, should revert to its original status once the settlers vacate. This poses a significant problem for those who have illegally encroached upon the land, constructing resorts and roads. To protect their interests and continue their unlawful activities, the only option for these encroachers seems to be capturing and keeping elephants and other wild animals in captivity or relocating them elsewhere.

This propaganda, portraying Arikomban and other elephants as bloodthirsty and destructive villains, serves the nefarious ends of these ruthless encroachers. They aim to exploit and destroy our forests and delicate ecosystems by eroding empathy and sensitivity towards not only elephants but also all forms of wildlife. This dangerous trend threatens not only wildlife but also the weakest members of our society, as it fosters a mindset that justifies exploiting anyone or anything for personal gain.

Nature possesses wisdom, logic, and balance. It is imperative that we, as responsible global citizens, protect the rights of all life on Earth. We must stand up for Arikomban and his tribe, advocate for wildlife, and preserve our forests, mountains, rivers, seas, and skies. We must safeguard the rights of all life forms and ensure their right to exist.

Therefore, I respectfully request your support by signing and sharing this online petition, urging the relevant authorities to undertake the following actions:

• Inquire about the current well-being of Arikomban, the wild elephant relocated to the Periyar Reserve from Chinnakanal Forest who is now under the custody of wildlife officials of Tamil Nadu.
• Obtain information regarding the elephant's health status after undergoing tranquilization.
• Request details on the proper and ethical procedures followed during tranquilization, including the medication administered, dosage, veterinary protocols, and potential consequences.
  Investigate incidents of encroachment and acquisition of forest land in Chinnakanal and the Western Ghats region.
• Examine the illegal sale and unauthorized transfer of forest land through illicit means.
• Take immediate action to address the issue of illegal resort constructions and tourism activities in the Kerala forests that put wildlife in the region at risk.
• Ensure the relocation of tribal people from "301 Colony," a settlement within the forest that encroaches upon the natural habitat of wild elephants and other animals.
• Highlight the practicality and feasibility of relocating and rehabilitating tribal communities instead of capturing wild elephants and causing harm to both animals and their habitats.
• Evaluate the extent of forest area reduction since 2002 due to encroachments by land mafia, resort developers, illegal arrack makers, and narcotic drug dealers.
• Initiate an inquiry into the involvement of politicians and government officials of Kerala in the aforementioned illegal activities within the forested area.
• Address concerns related to the Wildlife and Forest Departments of the Government of Kerala, emphasizing their responsibility to protect the forest and wildlife. Their actions seem to support influential individuals who convert forest land for personal gain, posing a threat to wildlife and native tribal communities.
• Draw attention to the issue of tea plantations and the cultivation of non-native tree species, such as Acacia, in forested areas, which obstructs the growth of natural vegetation and trees in the region.
• By signing this petition, we join forces to demand immediate action to prevent the aforementioned atrocities, safeguard our wildlife, allow the tusker Arikomban to return to his natural habitat, and preserve our invaluable forest lands, which are vital for both the survival of wildlife and the well-being of our society.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. Your support and prompt action will make a significant difference in the lives of these magnificent creatures and help protect the delicate balance of nature.

Yours sincerely,