Nearly a month after multiple forest officers were allegedly assaulted while stopping the illegal construction of an artificial Chhath Puja pond on protected forest land in Tughlakabad, the Delhi Forest Department says its complaint has still not been converted into an FIR. The complaint, filed on October 15, detailed how a mob had confronted and attacked forest staff when they tried to prevent the encroachment.
Incident Took Place on Southern Ridge Land
According to department officials, the land in question falls under the Southern Ridge, an ecologically sensitive zone where any non-forestry activity is prohibited unless official approval is granted. The construction of a temporary pond for Chhath Puja preparations, they said, violates Ridge rules and poses a long-term threat to the protected environment.
Forest officers claim that when they reached the site on October 14, they saw large-scale excavation and levelling work underway. As the officers attempted to stop the activity and explain the restrictions, a group of people gathered around them, confronted them, and allegedly attacked members of the forest staff.
Complaint Yet to Become FIR
Despite submitting a detailed written complaint on October 15, officials say they have received no update from the local police station. The delay in filing an FIR has raised concern within the department, especially since the incident involved direct violence against government staff performing their duty.
Multiple calls for action and follow-ups have reportedly been made to police authorities. However, the officers claim that their complaint remains “under process” with no formal FIR registered even after 30 days.
Police Response Still Unclear
When contacted by The Indian Express, the Delhi Police did not comment on the matter. The silence from the police has added to the frustration of forest officials, who argue that the lack of prompt action sends a wrong signal to those encroaching on protected lands.
Forest Department Stands Firm
In the complaint submitted by the Range Forest Officer of the Asola Bhatti Range, officials stated that while performing their assigned duties, the team was met with aggression and obstruction. They maintain that such attacks not only threaten the safety of officers but also encourage illegal construction on forest land, especially during festival seasons when temporary structures often appear overnight.
The Forest Department says it will continue pursuing legal action and has urged the authorities to file the FIR at the earliest to ensure accountability and prevent future disruptions.