Assam Minister Orders Probe into Forest Destruction in Behali

Dispur, India Jul 16, 2026 ALN:  Following his visit to the Dikal and Radhasu Forest Protection Camps in the Behali Reserve Forest to assess the prevailing situation, Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah on Thursday directed forest personnel and the police to take stringent action against those involved in forest destruction and encroachment.

The Behali Reserve Forest is an important ecological zone in Assam, known for its rich biodiversity and significant role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region. The forest serves as a habitat for various wildlife species and contributes to the local climate and hydrology. However, in recent months, reports have surfaced indicating that illegal activities, including logging and land encroachment, have been on the rise in this area.

During his visit, Minister Mallabaruah observed the alarming state of the forest and recognized the urgent need for intervention. The minister also ordered a probe into the alleged involvement of Forest Department personnel in the ongoing destruction of the forest, highlighting concerns over potential corruption and collusion within the department.

"I want to tell them clearly that whatever the forest officials decide to do on the spot, they should do it. Whenever there is a need to open fire, they can do so without any fear. The Assam government is with them," the minister said. This statement underscores the government's commitment to protecting the forest and its resources, even if it requires the use of force. This stance is particularly significant given the rising tensions and challenges faced by forest officials in the region.

Expressing suspicion of possible internal collusion, Baruah stated that some officials and employees of the Forest Department might have maintained covert links with alleged miscreants from Arunachal Pradesh, who have been accused of clearing forest land over the past several months. The proximity of Arunachal Pradesh to Assam has historically led to disputes, not only over land but also over resources, further complicating the management of forested areas.

"The incident has been happening for the last six months, and maybe one or another official is involved. So, I have directed that the call detail records (CDRs) of all officials and staff posted at the Forest Range Office be examined," he said. This directive to scrutinize communication records reflects the seriousness of the allegations and the need for accountability among forest officials.

The minister further directed the Forest Department to immediately register cases against the miscreants allegedly involved in destroying forests and encroaching upon Assam's land. This action is part of a broader strategy to deter illegal activities and protect the integrity of the forest ecosystem.

"What I have seen here is that there is no political or border dispute. A section of people is destroying the forest to encroach upon the land with the intention of cultivating palm oil," the minister said. The mention of palm oil cultivation is particularly noteworthy, as it highlights the economic pressures that often drive deforestation. The global demand for palm oil has led to significant land-use changes in various parts of the world, including Assam, where farmers may resort to illegal encroachment to meet market demands.

To strengthen protection of the reserve, he also instructed the concerned departments to construct an alternative access road to the reserve forest and establish better camps for forest guards and battalion personnel. Improved infrastructure is crucial for effective forest management, as it enhances the ability of authorities to monitor and protect these areas from illegal activities.

He further announced that restoration of the damaged forest would begin on Friday. This restoration effort is essential not only for the recovery of the ecosystem but also for the re-establishment of the ecological services that the forest provides to the surrounding communities.

"It is saddening to see the forest area in this condition. The Forest Department will entrust the Ecological Task Force with the responsibility of restoring the damaged land. For the protection of the area, the Assam Police and the forest battalion will work together. Directions have also been issued to undertake all necessary development works related to roads and camps. There is also a need for an additional road, as in some places we could not reach immediately," he added. The involvement of the Ecological Task Force signifies a commitment to restoring ecological balance and highlights the collaborative efforts needed to address environmental issues in the region.

Reiterating that the government would not tolerate further destruction of forests, Baruah stated that the Assam Police and the forest battalion would jointly ensure the protection of the reserve forest. This collaborative approach is essential in addressing the multifaceted challenges of forest protection, which often involve local communities, economic interests, and environmental sustainability.

"For the protection of the forest, the battalion should work. If there is a border dispute, we will resolve it politically. But destroying forests under the pretext of a boundary dispute is unacceptable," he said. This statement reflects a broader understanding that while political and territorial disputes may exist, they should not be used as justifications for environmental degradation. The minister's commitment to addressing both the ecological and political dimensions of the issue is crucial for fostering a sustainable approach to forest management in Assam.

As the situation continues to evolve, the actions taken by the Assam government will be closely monitored by environmentalists, local communities, and stakeholders invested in the preservation of Assam's natural resources. The outcome of the investigation into the alleged collusion within the Forest Department and the effectiveness of the restoration efforts will likely set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, impacting both policy and practice in forest conservation across the region.