Shimla, October 22, 2024: The Himachal Pradesh High Court has issued stringent directions to the state government, instructing officials to ensure no further encroachment on government or forest land in Kullu.
The order came during the hearing of CWP No. 2911 of 2016, Lot Ram vs. State of HP, where the court reviewed the compliance affidavit filed by the Divisional Forest Officer of Kullu.
The court, presided by Justice Vivek Singh Thakur and Justice Bipin C. Negi, was informed through an affidavit and videographic evidence that the previous court orders, issued on August 1, 2024, had been complied with.
The state government claimed that the unauthorized occupation had been removed, and necessary steps had been taken to prevent re-encroachment.
While closing the case, the High Court laid down clear directives for the Revenue and Forest Departments.
Officers have been ordered to remain vigilant, ensuring no fresh encroachment on public or forest lands by the petitioner or any other individual. The court emphasized that if any encroachment is found to be overlooked or unreported, the responsible field staff or higher authority will face immediate suspension and criminal, as well as departmental, proceedings. In such cases, dismissal from service may also be initiated.
The Chief Secretary of Himachal Pradesh has been directed to circulate these instructions across departments. Additionally, the court instructed the Additional Advocate General to ensure that the Chief Secretary receives a copy of the order.
The High Court’s firm stance aims to safeguard forest land in the region and send a clear message against unauthorized encroachment in the state.