No permission has been obtained from the wildlife conservation department for the purpose.

After this illegal activity became known, MP Shivashakti Anandan, Dr. Shivamohan and northern provincial councilor Ravigaran visited the area.

However, they came under threat from the settlers and the bodyguards took them to safety.

When contacted, district secretary Rubavadi Kediswaran said she too, visited the area and ordered an immediate halt to the clearing and settling activities.

The order was given to the wildlife and land development departments, she said.