‘Gross’ forest law violations: Centre orders Assam to take legal action against top official

By | July 3, 2025
Forest law violation Assam - illegal forest land clearance in Geleky

The Centre has asked the Assam government to take legal action against a senior forest official for breaking forest conservation laws. The official, M.K. Yadava, served as the Special Secretary (Forest) and earlier as Principal Chief Conservator of Forests in Assam.

Illegal Forest Land Clearance for Commando Camps

Yadava approved forest land for two commando camps without getting permission from the Union government. This move violated the Forest (Conservation) Act, 2023, which replaced the earlier 1980 law to protect India’s forests.

The camps were built on protected land. One camp covered 26 hectares in Geleky (Sivasagar district), and the other used 11 hectares in Damchera (Hailakandi district). According to the law, only the central government can approve the use of forest land for non-forest purposes. But Yadava gave his approval without following this rule.

Centre Responds to Violations

The Shillong office of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) investigated the issue. It confirmed that Yadava’s decision broke the law. He had no authority to approve such land use.

In May 2025, the Ministry told the Assam Forest Department to file a legal case against Yadava. This step follows Rule 15(2) of the Forest Conservation Rules, 2023. The rule makes it compulsory to start legal action in cases of violations. The Ministry also directed the local Divisional Forest Officer to submit an action report within 45 days.

Ex Post Facto Approvals Raise Eyebrows

Interestingly, the Forest Advisory Committee later gave ex post facto clearances for both camps. This means it approved the projects after they had already started. The committee also imposed penalties on the projects. However, experts believe this doesn’t excuse the initial violations.

Environmentalists argue that allowing approvals after the fact weakens the law. They say the law should prevent such actions before any construction begins.

Legal experts agree that ex post facto approval does not remove personal accountability. They stress that those who break the law must still face consequences, no matter the project’s purpose.

NGT Probes the Matter

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is also examining these projects. The Eastern Bench is reviewing the Geleky project. The Principal Bench in Delhi already looked into the Damchera case.

In Damchera, the tribunal closed the case after the Assam government promised to limit development to under 20,000 square meters. This size avoids the need for an Environmental Impact Assessment. Critics say the government used a loophole, even if legally allowed.

However, the Geleky case remains open. The tribunal continues to question how the law was sidestepped and why approvals weren’t taken in advance.

Spotlight on M.K. Yadava

Yadava is a respected officer with years of experience. Some of his supporters argue that he approved the land for security reasons. They claim the camps serve public interest and the forest loss was minimal.

Despite these claims, the Centre believes he acted beyond his legal powers. The Ministry’s action sends a strong signal: even senior officers must follow environmental laws.

Yadava has not released a public statement about the latest directive. It’s unclear if he will challenge the order or comply with the process quietly.

What This Means for Forest Governance

This case tests the strength of the new Forest (Conservation) Act, 2023. The Centre’s firm action could become a model for future enforcement. It also highlights the importance of accountability in environmental governance.

Environmental groups have welcomed the decision. They say it sends a clear message that forest laws must be respected. “Too often, officials treat clearance rules as flexible. This shows there are consequences,” said a spokesperson from North East Forest Watch.

At the same time, some state officials feel the Centre should show flexibility, especially in sensitive border areas. They say security projects often need faster approvals. Balancing development and conservation remains a challenge, especially in conflict-prone zones.

Conclusion

The Centre’s order to take legal action against a senior official for forest law violations is a rare and bold step. It may set a new standard for how such cases are handled. As Assam prepares its response, the nation will watch closely. What happens next could change how India enforces its forest conservation laws.