Complainant Summoned in Suresh Gopi-Leopard Tooth Pendant Row
A recent controversy surrounding Union Minister Suresh Gopi’s alleged possession of a leopard-tooth pendant has taken a new turn. Kerala’s Forest Department has summoned A A Muhammed Hashim, an INTUC youth leader, who filed a complaint on June 16, to appear before the Pattikkad Range office on July 21. Hashim is required to present visual or other evidence against Suresh Gopi’s alleged violation of the Wildlife Protection Act.
The controversy began when Hashim alleged that Suresh Gopi was wearing a leopard-tooth pendant, which is a protected species under the Act. The complaint was filed with the Forest Department, which has now summoned Hashim to provide evidence in support of his claim.
The Wildlife Protection Act prohibits the possession, sale, and trade of protected species, including the leopard. The Act also prohibits the killing, trapping, or poaching of these animals, as well as the destruction of their habitats. The punishment for violating the Act can include imprisonment and fines.
Hashim’s complaint was filed after a photo of Suresh Gopi wearing the pendant was circulated on social media. The photo was said to have been taken during a function in Kerala, where Suresh Gopi was the chief guest. Hashim alleged that the pendant was made from the tooth of a leopard, which is a protected species under the Act.
The Forest Department has taken the complaint seriously and has summoned Hashim to appear before the Pattikkad Range office on July 21. Hashim is required to present visual or other evidence against Suresh Gopi’s alleged violation of the Act. The department has also asked Hashim to provide the source of the photo and any other evidence he has collected in support of his claim.
Suresh Gopi has denied the allegations, saying that the pendant is not made from a leopard’s tooth. He has also alleged that the complaint is politically motivated and is an attempt to tarnish his reputation.
The controversy has sparked heated debate in Kerala, with some people supporting Suresh Gopi and others calling for him to be held accountable for his alleged violation of the Wildlife Protection Act.
The Forest Department has promised to take a fair and impartial approach to the case, and has asked Hashim to provide all the necessary evidence to support his claim. The department has also assured that it will not hesitate to take action against anyone found guilty of violating the Act.
The case is being closely watched by animal lovers and conservationists in Kerala, who are eager to see how it unfolds. The controversy has also highlighted the need for greater awareness about the importance of protecting endangered species and their habitats.
In conclusion, the complainant has been summoned in the Suresh Gopi-Leopard Tooth Pendant row, and the case is set to go to trial on July 21. The controversy has sparked heated debate in Kerala, with some people supporting Suresh Gopi and others calling for him to be held accountable for his alleged violation of the Wildlife Protection Act.
