Varghese Chakkalakkal, Bishop, Calicut Diocese, has sought the intervention of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to ensure peace of mind for residents of upland areas, who are worried over the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) proposal.
He was opening a protest outside the Kozhikode collectorate on Tuesday against the Supreme Court mandate of 1 km of buffer zone around wildlife sanctuaries in the country. The event was organised by various associations affiliated to the Thamarassery Archdiocese.
The Bishop said the court order was hanging like Damocles’ Sword over people’s heads. Those who are living near the buffer zones are spending sleepless nights. He asked MLAs in the respective constituencies to handle the issue and initiate a debate in the Assembly.
