Idukki’s Thommankuthu village is embroiled in a tense conflict after the Forest Department removed a cross erected by St Thomas Church on land claimed by both locals and the department. The cross, installed in Naranganam area where people have lived for over 60 years, was taken down in April, sparking widespread outrage cutting across communities.

Fr James Eikkaramattom, Vicar of St Thomas Church, said the Cross was placed on church-allocated land. In response to the removal, residents from different faiths planted crosses outside their homes in a show of solidarity against the Forest Department’s actions.

The controversy escalated as Kalliyar Range Officer T K Manoj, who led the removal and issued legal notices against clergy for holding a Good Friday procession on the disputed land, was transferred amid public backlash. Yet tensions remain high, with villagers accusing forest officials of harassment and disregarding their rights to live and farm in the area.

Legal cases were filed against church leaders, including the Vicar General and Chancellor, causing further uproar. Though higher officials have paused notices temporarily, locals believe this is a mere cooling tactic since Manoj had already sought a transfer.

Protest leaders claim the Forest Department aims to declare the land near Anayadi Kuthu as reserve forest, threatening generations of villagers who possess valid land documents. A report by the Vannappuram Village Officer, relying on outdated tax records, labeled the land as forest territory, fueling the dispute.

Following intensified protests, the Thodupuzha Tahsildar inspected the area and confirmed it as private land in a report to the District Collector. Protesters subsequently appealed to the Chief Minister, who has ordered a thorough investigation by the district administration.