Chhattisgarh's Forest Controversy: Mining vs. Conservation Battle Heats Up

The Chhattisgarh Assembly saw Congress protesting alleged large-scale deforestation for mining in tribal areas. They accused the BJP government of facilitating mining through fake hearings. The Forest Minister refuted claims, citing increased forest cover and legal compliance, while Congress highlighted ecological threats.

The Chhattisgarh Assembly descended into chaos as Congress leaders clamored over alleged mass deforestation in tribal areas for mining projects. The opposition accused the BJP government of approving these projects through sham public hearings, triggering brief suspensions of several Congress MLAs.

Opposition members claimed that areas like Surguja and Bastar faced significant protests against forest land diversion for mining. They questioned the government's allegiance, suggesting it favored industrialists over environmental and tribal welfare. Minister Kedar Kashyap refuted these charges, asserting compliance with regulations and an increase in forest cover, citing Forest Survey of India data.

Kashyap stated that compensatory afforestation was underway, with planned wildlife conservation efforts for each mining initiative. He dismissed allegations of unlawful tree felling, emphasizing adherence to legal procedures and approvals, while Congress members voiced concerns over ecological impacts, leading to further protests in the assembly.

(With inputs from agencies.)