Will Criminal Action be Taken Against Unauthorized Religious Structures on Forest Land?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik has taken a strong stance against the construction of unauthorized religious structures on forest land, vowing to pursue criminal action against offenders. This move is part of a broader effort to protect environmental integrity and enforce legal frameworks governing land use.
Key Takeaways
- Criminal charges will be filed against unauthorized construction on forest land.
- The government will gather evidence over the next two months.
- Women's cooperative societies may receive future development projects.
- A committee will enhance transparency in project allocations.
- 66 irrigation projects are managed by the Majalgaon Irrigation Department.
Mumbai, July 8 (NationPress) - Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik declared on Tuesday that criminal charges will be pursued against individuals constructing religious sites on encroached forest lands within the state.
In response to a question posed by BJP member Pravin Datke during a discussion on a calling attention motion, the minister acknowledged that the government has received multiple complaints regarding unauthorized religious establishments built on forest land.
He committed to gathering information about such encroachments over the next two months. Following this investigation, criminal cases will be initiated, and further actions will follow.
Minister Naik asserted, "Measures will be taken against both organizations that intrude upon forest lands to construct religious sites and the individuals responsible for these constructions. Furthermore, actions will be initiated against officials who fail to act or assist in these illegal constructions."
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis indicated that the state government is exploring possibilities of assigning development projects by the Public Works Department to women's cooperative societies.
In response to a calling attention motion from NCP legislator Prakash Solanke, the Chief Minister revealed that the Public Works Department has allocated development projects worth up to Rs 10 lakh to labor cooperative societies, educated unemployed engineers, and registered contractors.
The government has approved the registration of women's cooperative societies and is considering assigning future projects to these societies.
The Chief Minister noted that a committee of public representatives will be established to enhance transparency in the allocation of development works. This committee's recommendations will aim to ensure consistency and transparency in project assignments.
In addressing numerous suggestions, Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil stated that the Majalgaon Irrigation Department oversees a total of 66 projects, comprising 6 medium, 53 small, and 7 Kolhapuri-type dams.
“This department manages 87,993 irrigation areas. The Executive Engineer approved a procurement list of 148 essential works valued below Rs 10 lakh. Instructions will be issued to submit an inquiry report on the allocation of works within 15 days, after which appropriate actions will be taken,” added Minister Patil.
Point of View
It is essential to uphold these regulations to maintain the sanctity of our forests and ensure that development does not come at the cost of our natural resources. The government's proactive stance reflects a commitment to sustainability and legal integrity.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions will be taken against unauthorized religious constructions?
Criminal cases will be filed against individuals and organizations that construct religious sites on encroached forest lands.
How will the government gather information on encroachments?
The government plans to collect information over the next two months regarding unauthorized constructions.
What is the role of women's cooperative societies in development works?
The state government is considering assigning development projects to women's cooperative societies to enhance participation and transparency.
How many projects are managed by the Majalgaon Irrigation Department?
The Majalgaon Irrigation Department oversees a total of 66 projects, including various types of dams.
What measures are being taken for transparency in project allocation?
A committee of public representatives will be formed to ensure transparency in the allocation of development works.
