Illegal Construction in Assam Reserve Forests Exposed; Centre Seeks Action

The Union Forest Ministry has flagged illegal constructions in Geleky and Innerline Reserve Forests in Assam for police battalion housing, violating forest laws. Despite claims by then PCCF M.K. Yadava that no illegal diversion occurred, inspections revealed large-scale, unauthorized construction. The Ministry found 50–80% of the work completed without Central approval. A showcause notice was issued to Yadava, but his reply was unsatisfactory. The Ministry has ordered legal action and monthly reports from the State government and concerned DFOs.