Raipur
The opposition, Congress, stirred up a storm in the Chhattisgarh Vidhan Sabha on Wednesday, vehemently protesting against the issue of tree cutting in the Hasdeo forests of Chhattisgarh. Their demand for a discussion in the House, brought through a motion of adjournment, was swiftly rejected by the Speaker. Subsequently, opposition lawmakers staged a vociferous protest within the chamber, leading to the suspension of those involved in the uproar. Amidst the chaos, House proceedings were adjourned for five minutes.
In response to the opposition’s demand, BJP lawmaker Sushant Shukla questioned the previous government’s role, suggesting that a discussion could have been facilitated if BJP members wished. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Brijmohan Agrawal deemed the opposition’s demand unjustified, highlighting that ample opportunities for discussion exist within the House.
Meanwhile, Ajay Chandrakar raised concerns about corruption in the beautification projects from Telibandha to VIP Road. He noted that permissions for tree cutting were granted by the forest department prior to the formation of the current government.
Opposition leader Dr Charnadas Mahant cited a resolution passed in the House on July 26, 2022, advocating for the cancellation of all coal blocks in the Hasdeo region. Despite subsequent correspondence with the central government, no action was taken. Mahant revealed that the Forest Department had sanctioned the felling of 15,307 trees in Hasdev before the new government assumed office.
Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel condemned the granting of permissions despite the unanimous resolution. Expressing concern for wildlife and local tribal communities, he emphasized the adverse impact on irrigation due to the Bango Dam.
Congress legislators Kunwar Nishad and Vikram Mandavi highlighted the potential consequences of deforestation on livelihoods and the human-elephant conflict in Hasdev. They lamented the inability of tribal communities to voice their concerns and warned of the threats to tribal lands, forests, and water sources.
Echoing these sentiments, Congress legislator Anila Bhendia criticized the forest clearance for industrial interests under the BJP-led governments. MLA Ambika Markam stressed the importance of protecting tribal interests, particularly under the leadership of a tribal Chief Minister.
Atal Shrivastav raised alarm over the clearing of tribal lands under police protection and questioned the necessity for additional coal mining blocks. Laljit Singh Rathia emphasized the responsibility of the tribal Chief Minister in addressing tribal issues and warned of the dire consequences for the Bango Dam with further deforestation.
Harshita Baghel and Savitri Mandavi urged a decision in the interest of tribals, highlighting the cultural and ecological significance of Hasdev. Raghavendra Singh underscored the economic benefits of forest conservation and urged a reconsideration of tree cutting orders.
In response, BJP legislator Dharmjeet Singh criticized the opposition’s stance, alleging their lack of action while in power. He questioned their commitment to tribal interests and highlighted missed opportunities for intervention during their tenure.
Opposition leader Dr Charnadas Mahant reiterated the importance of protecting Hasdev, emphasizing its ecological richness and the availability of alternative coal reserves. He underscored the diversity of flora and fauna in the region, urging collective efforts for conservation.
