The scenic Sulthan Bathery in Kerala's Wayanad district has become the centre of mass protests, with thousands of locals from all walks of life expressing their solidarity over the last week. These protests spiraled after the Supreme Court recently sought a response from the Centre on the possibilities of banning travel on National Highway 766, which passes through the Bandipur Tiger Reserve, stirring strong protests among locals in Wayanad. The top court had asked for suggestions on alternate routes.