Allegation of nexus between mafia and forest officials
NONGSTOIN: Illegal charcoal business in the Mawlangsu area of West Khasi Hills is continuing unabated even after the massive operation conducted by forest officials two months ago.
On visiting the area after a gap of two months, this correspondent found that many charcoal pits were still functioning along the road and labourers were loading trucks, which will take the charcoal to Byrnihat through Umsaw Road.
A source privy to the developments said the charcoal is being used by Shakhambani Ferro Alloy Private Ltd located at Riwiang in West Khasi Hills. This could not be verified immediately.
When this correspondent enquired whether there is patrolling in the area, it was revealed that the charcoal mafia here are running the business with connivance of forest officials. When asked to disclose the name of the forest officials involved, the charcoal mafias refused but assured that nothing would happen to them.
Two months ago, forest officials had seized more than 100 tonnes of illegal charcoal from West Khasi Hills.
When Manjunath C, DFO-Territorial Division (Shillong), was informed about the involvement of some forest officials in the illegal business, he said he was not aware of this but at the same time refuted the allegation. He, however, promised to send a team to inquire the matter.
Manjunath also said if the Department found that the allegation is true, it will have no option but to take action against the erring officials.
