The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has initiated suo motu proceedings regarding the alleged encroachment of 100 acres of forest land. This action follows a report published in Organiser on September 30, titled “Odisha: Land Jihad in Malkangiri District – Islam Nagar built on 100 acres of forest land in Motu Area.”
Given the jurisdiction of the Eastern Zonal Bench in Kolkata, the matter has been transferred accordingly, with the NGT instructing its office to send the original records to the Eastern Zonal Bench. The hearing is scheduled for December 3, 2024.
The NGT has issued notices to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), the Forest Department, and the Malkangiri District Collector, seeking clarification on how infrastructure such as roads, buildings, wire fencing, and other constructions was developed using funds from various government schemes, including the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA).
Respondents are required to submit their replies via affidavit to the Tribunal’s Eastern Zonal Bench at least one week before the next hearing.
Allegations also include the excavation of large ponds, construction of warehouses, and installation of transformers, indicating significant utilisation of state resources. These developments reportedly violate the Forest Conservation Act of 1980 and the Environment Protection Act of 1986.
PCCF seeks report from Malkangiri DFO
After receiving notice from the National Green Tribunal, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) has directed the Malkangiri District Forest Officer (DFO) to conduct a site visit to determine whether the land in question is classified as forest land and to submit a report.
Local residents rejoice, Hope truth will come out
Local residents have long protested against Masoom Khan’s alleged encroachment on forest and government land to build his extensive empire. However, due to Khan’s influence, their protests had not resulted in any significant outcomes. With the NGT now taking cognisance of the matter, residents are hopeful that the truth will finally be revealed.
According to Manik Lal Chakraborty, the BJP’s Malkangiri District Secretary, Masoom Khan has not only constructed large buildings on government land but has also excavated ponds on forest and public land for agricultural purposes. Furthermore, he is reportedly operating a fake medicine factory. However, with the NGT addressing this issue, it is anticipated that the truth will come to light.
It may be noted that in September, a shocking incident emerged in Malkangiri district involving the alleged encroachment of approximately 100 acres of forest land in the Motu area, where Islamnagar has been constructed. This situation had raised suspicions of complicity among local authorities. The incident occurred during the tenure of the previous BJD government, prompting concerns about possible collusion and misuse of power.
Islamnagar has been illegally established on forest land just 2-3 km from National Highway 326, surrounded by dense forests along the Saberi riverbank. The construction process involved building a mud road and erecting wire fencing.
Mohammad Masoom Khan is at the centre of the controversy surrounding the alleged illegal occupation of around 100 acres of forest land, where he has reportedly built Islamnagar. Khan is accused of unlawfully establishing a vast empire, with claims that he received protection and encouragement from the former BJD government.
Local BJP leaders have characterised this act as “Land Jihad”. They assert that occupying 100 acres of forest land, clearing trees, and constructing large high-rise buildings cannot occur without political support. Furthermore, they argue that building a road under the Mahatma Gandhi NREGA scheme, constructing a large reservoir with funds from the Agriculture and Fisheries Department, and installing a significant transformer by the Electricity Department would also require political backing. They contend that this extensive illegal activity has happened with the full protection and encouragement of the Biju Janata Dal, particularly former MP Pradeep Majhi. For political reasons, the administration has allegedly overlooked these actions, providing support and cooperation in this illegal endeavour.
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