Controversy over not inviting local representatives on opening day of Neelakurinji blooming season in Keralam
Residents, local body representatives allege that the Forest department failed to invite or even inform them about the opening of the season; Chief Conservator of Forests clarifies that the event was merely an informal opening
A controversy has arisen over the local representatives' exclusion from the opening day of the Neelakurinji blooming season in Keralam. As the Chokramudy hills, home to the rare flowering plant, reopened on August 24, 2026, residents and elected officials accused the Forest department of failing to inform or invite them to the event.
In 2024, illegal encroachments, tree felling, and uprooting of the Neelakurinji occurred in the region, prompting the formation of the Chokramudy Protection Council by residents from Bison Valley panchayat. The council demanded the removal of encroachments and conservation of the hills. In response, the State government formed two special investigation teams (SITs), which led to the revocation of illegal title deeds and land reclamation in 2025.
Bison Valley panchayat president Shalumol Sabu criticized the Forest department for not informing local bodies or public representatives about the opening. She also highlighted the exorbitant entry fee for tourists, which forced locals to pay ₹200 to view the flowers. The panchayat had planned to establish an entrance booth, but the District Collector denied permission.
Baiju C.B., vice-president of the Chokramudy Protection Council, emphasized the importance of local vigilance in preventing damage to the blooms. He noted that local residents had alerted the Forest department during previous incidents of tree felling and destruction, but their efforts were ignored. Ms. Sabu further pointed out that the panchayat's responsibility includes managing waste generated by visitors, a task currently unfulfilled due to the entry fee.
The official opening notice exacerbated local resentment. Munnar Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Abhay Yadav inaugurated the season, along with other officials, excluding local representatives. The Chief Conservator of Forests D.K. Vinod Kumar clarified that the event was an informal opening ahead of the festive rush and that a formal event involving all stakeholders would be organized to celebrate the flowering season collaboratively.
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