Ranchi, April 20: The Jharkhand High Court held a hearing on Monday regarding the large-scale tree felling that occurred during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020 across various districts. During the proceedings, the state government acknowledged the involvement of range forest officers, rangers, and other forest staff in the matter.
Charges have been filed against two forest officials, while an arrest warrant has been issued for another accused individual. Two FIRs were registered in Palamu district, and the investigation is currently being conducted by the CID. The hearing, presided over by Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad, saw the ADG of CID and the investigating DSP appear in person, complying with a previous court order.
The court expressed strong dissatisfaction with the slow progress of the investigation and directed the state government to submit an updated status report within two weeks. The government informed the court that the investigation had been hampered due to the involvement of forest department officials, leading to delays.
In a previous hearing, the court criticized the responses from the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and the Director General of Police (DGP) as unsatisfactory. The court remarked that a six-year delay in the investigation is a serious issue that could lead to contempt proceedings. It emphasized that merely citing the need for documents is insufficient, especially when the CID was instructed to conduct a swift and effective investigation. The court took a firm stance, ordering the ADG of CID and the investigating officer to appear in person with all relevant documents on April 20.
The petition alleges that during the lockdown in 2020, hundreds of trees were felled in several districts, including Jamtara, Palamu, Chaibasa, and Ranchi. The felled trees were reportedly transported out via over 200 trucks. Following the exposure of the case, FIRs were filed at the relevant police stations, and the investigation remains under the CID’s jurisdiction.
My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
Leave a Comment