SC judge stresses India’s tolerance, human-animal coexistence

Supreme Court Justice BV Nagarathna emphasized India’s historical culture of tolerance towards animals and urged a broader perspective on human-wildlife conflicts.

Speaking at a conference on “Human-Wildlife Conflict and Co-Existence” in Thiruvananthapuram, she highlighted that despite urbanization and land-use changes, India has maintained a balance between people and animals due to its inherent cultural belief in sharing space with wildlife.

Justice Nagarathna expressed concern that recent trends indicate a shift towards a human-centric approach, disregarding the constitutional duty under Article 51(A)(g) to show compassion to all living creatures.

Justice Nagarathna criticized the narrow view that focuses solely on wildlife encroaching human spaces. She called for a broader examination of why animals are entering human habitats, suggesting that human activities might be contributing to these conflicts. Her comments underscore the need for a holistic approach to address human-wildlife coexistence.

Justice MM Sundresh, also speaking at the event, remarked that animals do not perceive property as humans do. He pointed out that human development and expansion have encroached upon animal habitats, leading to conflicts.

Justice Sundresh emphasized the responsibility of humans to protect nature, suggesting that if animals could have religion, humans might be seen as the adversary.

Kerala High Court Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar echoed these sentiments, stating that human-wildlife coexistence is becoming strained, leading to conflicts.

He advocated for a holistic approach in policy initiatives and highlighted the role of legal services authorities in providing education and awareness.

Justice Jamdar emphasized the principle of interdependence and interconnectivity as foundational for finding solutions to human-wildlife conflicts.

The conference, organized by the National Legal Services Authority and the Kerala State Legal Services Authority, also featured addresses from Attorney General R Venkataramani, Kerala High Court Judge Justice A Muhamed Mustaque, and Kerala Law Minister P Rajeeve.