Trichy Villagers Stage Road Blockade Protest Against Forest Department Over Hunting Arrests
In a significant demonstration of community solidarity, more than 100 residents from villages near Manapparai in Trichy district organized a protest against the forest department on Tuesday. The agitation was triggered by the apprehension of several villagers who were allegedly engaged in illegal hunting activities during the Mahasivaratri festival.
Customary Hunt Sparks Conflict With Authorities
According to local sources, communities in the Manapparai region traditionally participate in 'paari vettai', a customary rabbit hunt, as part of Mahasivaratri observances. This year, however, the practice led to a confrontation with forest officials. Early on Tuesday morning, individuals from Pannangombu village reportedly ventured out for hunting, prompting intervention from the forest department.
A team led by Manapparai Forest Range Officer A Maheshwaran, acting on directives from Chief Conservator of Forests R Kanchana and District Forest Officer S Krithiga, moved to prevent the hunting expedition. The officials successfully detained three individuals and attempted to transport them to the forest office for further action.
Villagers Mobilize, Block Road in Protest
Upon learning of the arrests, villagers and nearby residents swiftly mobilized to intercept the forest department vehicle. The protesters gathered at Pannangombu Kadai Veethi, strategically positioning themselves on the Manapparai–Thuvarangurichi Road. They effectively blocked the thoroughfare, bringing traffic to a standstill as they demanded the release of the apprehended individuals.
The situation escalated as the road blockade persisted, drawing the attention of local law enforcement. Manapparai DSP K V Kavya, along with other officials, arrived at the scene to negotiate with the protesting villagers. After discussions, the forest department agreed to release the three individuals, leading to the protesters calling off their agitation and dispersing from the area.
Traffic Disruption and Ongoing Investigation
The protest resulted in significant traffic disruption on the Manapparai–Thuvarangurichi Road for approximately one hour. Following the resolution, police ensured the safe departure of the forest department vehicle from the location. Authorities from the Manapparai subdivision police have launched an investigation into the incident to assess the circumstances surrounding the protest and the hunting activities.
This event highlights the ongoing tensions between traditional cultural practices and wildlife conservation laws in rural Tamil Nadu. The forest department's enforcement actions, aimed at curbing illegal hunting, clashed with longstanding community customs associated with Mahasivaratri, underscoring the challenges in balancing ecological protection with local traditions.
