Supreme Court Issues Stern Warning to Telangana Govt
Article Today, Delhi:
The Supreme Court has issued a stringent warning to the Telangana government regarding the felling of trees for an IT infrastructure project in the Kancha Gachibowli forest area. The apex court has directed the state government to restore the deforested area, failing which the Chief Secretary, along with six other top officials, could face imprisonment.
Court Takes Suo Moto Cognizance…
A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Justice B.R. Gavai took up the matter for hearing. The court suo moto took cognizance of news reports regarding the illegal felling of trees in the 400-acre forest land near Hyderabad University in Kancha Gachibowli. Based on the reports submitted by amicus curiae K. Parameshwar, the court determined that these actions were unlawful.
“Bulldozed the Green Cover… Be Ready for a Temporary Jail” – Justice Gavai’s Outrage
‘The state government must restore this forest land. Otherwise, be prepared to send the Chief Secretary and the responsible officers to a temporary jail near this green cover that you have destroyed with bulldozers,’ Justice Gavai sternly cautioned. The court’s strong remarks underscore the seriousness of the situation.
Destruction Continued Despite High Court Stay – Supreme Court Takes Serious View
The petitioner presented evidence to the Supreme Court indicating that the felling of trees continued despite a stay order previously issued by the Telangana High Court. Consequently, the Supreme Court took an even graver view of the matter and directed the Registrar of the High Court to visit the site and submit an interim report. This has further compounded the government’s predicament.
Challenge to Environmental Protection – Government Actions Under Scrutiny
This case has ignited an important discussion in Telangana regarding the balance between forest conservation and development projects. The manner in which the government implements the Supreme Court’s directives will be crucial for environmental protection in the state. It remains to be seen what steps the government will take to prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future.
