Assam: MLA Hemanga Thakuria slams critics amid successful wild elephant drive in Palashbari

Amid rising incidents of wild elephant rampages across several villages in Assam's Palashbari constituency, local MLA Hemanga Thakuria has lauded the collaborative effort of the Forest Department, local administration, and residents in successfully driving a rogue elephant herd back to the forested zone within 48 hours.

The operation, initiated after continuous elephant incursions led to the death of one villager and large-scale damage to agricultural fields, was carried out under the direct supervision of Thakuria, in coordination with forest officials and local volunteers.

Speaking at a felicitation ceremony held at the Shanti Nezora Auditorium in the Boko-Chaygaon area, the MLA expressed his deep appreciation to all stakeholders involved in the challenging mission. “It was a collective effort and a victory of human-animal conflict management through coordination and courage,” Thakuria said.

However, the event also became a platform for Thakuria to respond strongly to criticism from sections of the opposition, who had dismissed the elephant rescue mission as a political "drama" on social media.

Taking a firm stand, the MLA said, “When meaningful work is done, the people always recognize it. But the opposition is more interested in belittling rather than building.”
He further questioned, “Is risking one’s life in elephant-infested areas, both day and night, a mere drama? Those who claim so should perhaps experience it themselves.”