Conflict of Interest Claim: Ex-Civil Servants Question Supreme Court's CEC Over Forest Act

A group of 60 former civil servants has raised concerns over the Central Empowered Committee's composition, fearing it might compromise cases challenging the Forest Conservation Amendment Act, 2023. Their letter to the Chief Justice of India highlights potential bias due to former government affiliations of current CEC members and lacks of independent experts.

Sixty former civil servants have expressed concerns to India's Chief Justice about potential conflicts of interest within the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), which may affect the outcomes of cases concerning the Forest Conservation Amendment Act, 2023.

The group's letter, dated June 30, details the predominance of former Indian Forest Service officers and a retired scientist within the CEC, pointing out the absence of independent experts. This composition could compromise the impartiality of advice given to the Supreme Court in ongoing cases.

The letter underscores apprehensions about relying on the CEC's guidance, noting recent court reliance in May 2025 on the CEC's advice concerning Maharashtra's 'zudpi' forests. The civil servants advocate for more independent experts on the panel to ensure balanced guidance.

(With inputs from agencies.)