The Kerala Forest Department has sought detailed documentation from actor Mohanlal after he disclosed possession of five pairs of elephant tusks and 13 ivory artefacts. The latest declaration comes amid ongoing legal proceedings relating to his previously declared elephant tusks…reports Asian Lite News Desk
The Kerala Forest Department has sought additional details from Malayalam actor Mohanlal after he disclosed that he possesses five pairs of elephant tusks and 13 ivory artefacts, all of which he says were received as gifts over the years.
Forest officials have asked the actor to submit complete documentation relating to three additional pairs of elephant tusks that were disclosed recently as part of a one-time settlement scheme for undisclosed wildlife articles.
According to Mohanlal, all the elephant tusks and ivory artefacts in his possession were gifted to him.
The disclosure has drawn attention because legal proceedings concerning the actor’s previously declared elephant tusks remain pending.
The Kerala government had issued orders in 2015 and 2016 permitting Mohanlal to retain two pairs of elephant tusks. Following the government orders, the Forest Department issued him an ownership certificate for the tusks.
However, the Kerala High Court subsequently quashed the ownership certificate, citing legal deficiencies in the procedure followed for granting it.
During the Forest Department’s one-time settlement scheme, Mohanlal informed authorities that he was also in possession of three additional pairs of elephant tusks, bringing the total number declared by him to five pairs.
The latest disclosure has brought renewed focus on the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act governing the possession of ivory and elephant tusks in India.
Under the law, ivory and elephant tusks cannot ordinarily be acquired as gifts. Such wildlife articles may only be legally possessed if they have been inherited or transferred through recognised legal channels and are supported by valid documentation.
The declaration of the tusks and ivory artefacts has therefore raised questions regarding their legal status and the documentation supporting their ownership.
Forest Department officials have clarified that only a preliminary verification process has been undertaken at this stage. A detailed examination will be carried out after the required records are submitted.
Authorities have indicated that forensic and DNA analyses may be conducted, if necessary, to determine the age, origin and legality of the elephant tusks.
Scientific examination could establish whether the tusks originated from multiple elephants and whether they comply with the documentation requirements laid down under wildlife protection laws.
Forest officials said the outcome of the verification process will determine whether any further legal or administrative action is warranted.
The department has directed Mohanlal to furnish all relevant records at the earliest to facilitate a comprehensive investigation into the wildlife articles declared in his possession.
The matter remains under examination by the Kerala Forest Department, while legal proceedings relating to the actor’s earlier ownership certificate continue.
