MLAs involved in illegal excavation: SECC
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 12 2018:
Despite complete prohibition and ban on all forms of unregulated/illegal excavation irrespective of location in Manipur by Manipur High Court, illegal excavation are still underway in many parts of the State including Reserved & Protected Forests.
'Ironically, some MLAs belonging to the ruling party' are also reportedly involved in this illegal activities in the name of undertaking developmental works in their constituencies, alleged Safe Environment Campaign Committee (SECC), Imphal East today.
A statement issued by chairman SECC M Inaobi Singh, said that the committee had been monitoring the implementation of the order of the High Court passed on July 25, 2018 in the State since last two months.
Although some of the forest officials at divisional level tried to work their best implementing the HC order, 'obstructions are frequently made by MLAs in power and their associates', alleged SECC.
Accusing the Government of giving free hand to the persons involved in the alleged illegal activities, SECC said that a DFO named Ganesh who was transferred in August at Thoubal Forest Division was suddenly transferred again in September after the officer cracked down on illegal excavation/quarrying within his jurisdiction.
SECC came to know of the sudden transfer of the officer when members of SECC visited Thoubal Forest Division office.
The officer had already left for Bishnupur to join duty there, said SECC.
Such alleged involvement of persons in power and transfer of upright officers will hinder the implementation of the HC order and degrade forests and environment, SECC said.