Imphal: In a resolute move to safeguard the ecological integrity of forest lands, the Central Forest Division has launched a crackdown on illegal excavation activities that have surfaced under the guise of flood-related operations across Manipur.
“The division has observed that several individuals and contractors are exploiting the recent floods as a cover to extract hill earth without proper authorization, a clear violation of forest laws,” said the Forest Division in a press release on Thursday.
“In few such instances which took place recently, Preliminary Offence Report and FIR have been filed and appropriate legal action has been initiated. Strict action will be taken against all individuals and involved in such illegal activities.”
“Minor minerals, including hill earth and stone, are categorized as forest produce under Section 2(4)(iv) of the Indian Forest Act, 1927, as well as under the Manipur Forest Rules, 2021. Consequently, any extraction, removal, or transportation of such materials without valid permits is strictly prohibited.”
Citing legal precedents, authorities referred to the High Court of Manipur’s landmark order dated July 25, 2018 (PIL No. 25 of 2017), which unequivocally bans all forms of unregulated or illegal excavation of minor minerals across the state, the release said.
“In light of these provisions, the Central Forest Division has issued a stern warning against any form of illegal hill earth excavation within forest areas. Owners and operators of JCBs, excavators, tippers, and dumpers have been strictly prohibited from carrying out any such activity without proper authorization. Any machinery found operating in forest areas without requisite permits will be seized immediately under the relevant legal provisions. Vehicle owners and drivers transporting illegally excavated materials will also face legal action, including the confiscation of vehicles.”
“To enforce the directive, frontline field staff have been instructed to maintain strict vigil. Random checks will be conducted at key forest entry and exit points, and strict immediate action will be taken against violators,” the Forest Division said.
“This decisive action by the Central Forest Division underscores the commitment to conserving forest resources and upholding forest laws.”
