North Bengal Forest Areas Face Allegations Over Illegal Timber Cutting and Sawmill Operations

North Bengal: Allegations have been raised regarding illegal timber cutting, transportation and sawmill operations in parts of North Bengal, particularly in areas associated with the MMP Forest Range in Jalpaiguri.

Claims have also been made regarding the movement of timber through forest and border-adjacent areas between Jalpaiguri and surrounding forest regions. According to the allegations, some timber may be transported without the required documents and processed through sawmills operating in the region.

Residents and local sources have raised concerns over the use and transportation of timber, including species such as Sal and Segun. The allegations also include concerns about possible revenue losses to the government if timber is transported or processed without the required permissions.

There have also been calls for the Forest Department and other competent authorities to conduct an investigation into timber movement, sawmill operations, permits, transit documents and related government records in the concerned areas.

Any involvement of officials, individuals or organisations in illegal activities would need to be established through an official inquiry and documentary evidence. The allegations should not be treated as established facts without verification.

Authorities have been urged to conduct a detailed investigation and make the findings public. A response from the concerned Forest Department officials and other authorities would also be important before reaching any conclusion regarding the allegations.