SHIMLA/MANDI: Himachal’s forests are burning, but all we get is a political circus
Bahri village, once lush and green, now resembles a graveyard. Majestic trees lie slaughtered, and no one knows if the land is private or forest area—perfect for timber mafias to exploit.
Laws meant to protect forests exist only on paper, while officials shuffle files and politicians trade blame. “It’s not just deforestation; it’s an ecological massacre,” says a Mandi-based activist.
A BJP fact-finding committee landed in Dharampur, Mandi, today to probe illegal logging of trees in a vast area in Bahri village.
Formed by state BJP chief Dr. Rajeev Bindal on December 24, it’s led by MLA Satpal Singh Satti with MLAs Sukhram Chaudhary and Balbir Verma tagging along.
The team met locals, gathered evidence, and promised a report in 10 days. But activists call it a joke.
“Where were they when Thunag Bazaar in Seraj was flooded with illegal logs in 2023?” asked a senior activist. Sukhu’s government had ordered a probe back then. What’s the result? Zero.
Locals are fed up with this blame game. “Both parties create noise for headlines, but no action on the ground,” said one frustrated resident.
The Dharampur case is no different—trees, including protected species, were chopped for firewood without permissions. Yet, no heads have rolled.
Satti told the media they need public participation to nail the culprits. But locals aren’t buying it. “Why no action against officials who allow this? It’s all eyewash,” they said.
Congress doesn’t get a free pass either. Thunag’s case is a glaring example of how probes are announced and forgotten. Environmentalists say the real culprits enjoy political shields, regardless of who’s in power.
“This is a pattern,” said another activist. “Both parties shelter the guilty. Forest laws are just on paper.” Himachal’s forests, meanwhile, continue to pay the price.
The Dharampur and Thunag episodes are proof of one thing—political will is missing. Unless there’s transparency and strict enforcement, this cycle of destruction won’t end.
Activists demand depoliticized action. But will that ever happen?
Himachal’s green cover is under threat. When will leaders stop playing games and start saving what’s left?