Supreme Court Directs CBI Probe and Restoration Measures, Orders Disciplinary Action Against Officials
During the hearing of the In Re: T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad vs. Union of India case on March 06, 2024, the Supreme Court (SC) of India strongly criticized former Uttarakhand Forest Minister Harak Singh Rawat and Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Kishan Chand for their involvement in illegal construction and tree felling activities within the Jim Corbett National Park. The SC emphasized that such actions, which lead to significant environmental damage, cannot be overlooked, and measures must be taken to prevent their recurrence.
The bench condemned the actions of the former forest minister and DFO, stating, “This case illustrates how politicians and bureaucrats have disregarded the public trust doctrine.” It further remarked, “The collusion between a politician and a forest officer has resulted in severe environmental damage for personal and political gains. Despite objections from senior forest department officials, vigilance, and police departments regarding the appointment of the DFO to a sensitive position, their recommendations were ignored. However, since the matter is under investigation by the CBI, we refrain from making further comments.”
The SC directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to conduct a thorough investigation and submit a status report within three months. Additionally, the bench, comprising Justice BR Gavai, Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra, and Justice Sandeep Mehta, decided not to interfere with the establishment of the ‘Tiger Safari’ at Pakhrau but ordered the relocation or establishment of a rescue center nearby. Moreover, it instructed the formation of a committee to evaluate the environmental damage in the Corbett Tiger Reserve and recommend restoration measures, with representatives from various relevant organizations.
Furthermore, the SC directed the State of Uttarakhand to expedite disciplinary proceedings against the responsible officers within six months and submit a status report within three months from March 06, 2024.
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