Anantnag, Aug. 1: MLA Shangus Anantnag East, Advocate Reyaz Ahmad Khan, has welcomed the Government’s notification operationalising the provisions of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, describing it as a landmark decision that will safeguard the constitutional and legal rights of Gujjar, Bakerwal and other forest-dwelling communities.
In a statement issued here, Khan said the notification has brought much-needed clarity by directing that no demarcation, eviction or displacement of eligible forest dwellers can be undertaken without strictly adhering to the procedure prescribed under the Forest Rights Act, 2006. He said the decision vindicates the concerns raised by him over the recent forest demarcation drives, during which several tribal families were allegedly subjected to harassment and intimidation.
Welcoming the move, the MLA said the Government has acted in the interest of justice by ensuring that the rights of Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers are protected in accordance with the law.
“This notification is a significant step towards upholding the spirit of the Forest Rights Act and preventing arbitrary action against vulnerable communities,” he said.
Coming down heavily on officials who allegedly intimidated tribal families during the recent demarcation exercise, Khan said such conduct is unacceptable and has no place in a democratic system governed by the rule of law. “No officer has the authority to harass or threaten tribals under the guise of demarcation.
Those responsible for creating fear among innocent families must introspect and ensure that their future actions remain within the legal framework,” he said.
The MLA reiterated that the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities have historically protected forests and have lived in harmony with nature for generations.
He said these communities have made immense contributions towards preserving the region’s ecological balance and deserve respect rather than intimidation.
Khan expressed hope that the notification would put an end to arbitrary actions and ensure that every future exercise relating to forest land is carried out only after due process under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.
He urged the concerned departments to implement the notification in its true letter and spirit so that the legitimate rights and dignity of tribal communities remain fully protected.
