Kerala Government Considers Expanding Probe into 2021 Muttil Tree-Felling Case
Kerala's government is considering expanding its investigation into the 2021 Muttil tree-felling case in Wayanad, where a government order issued by then Revenue Secretary A Jayathilak allegedly allowed illegal felling of high-value trees. The order, intended for farmers under Kerala Land Assignment Rules, was revoked after timber smuggling was detected. Forest Minister Shibu Baby John highlighted the need to probe the circumstances behind the order's reversal and possible wider exploitation, with a joint departmental review planned.
First-hand measurement across 2 sources
We measured how 2 outlets covered this story. Coverage leans balanced overall (Left 20%, Centre 80%, Right 0%). Overall sentiment is neutral (43/100). Lens Score 72/100.
Outlets measured: news18, hindustantimes. See how each one headlined and framed the same story in the source comparison below.
AI Analysis
All 2 outlets scored close to centre on political lean. The real divergence here is in emphasis, not lean — compare the headlines below to see how each outlet chose to frame the same facts.
Sentiment was consistent across outlets (38–48/100), indicating broadly factual reporting rather than editorialising.
Coverage timeline
hindustantimes broke this story on 3 Oct, 07:54 am. Other outlets followed.