The Chhattisgarh government has launched a massive anti-encroachment drive on the sacred Mahamaya mountain in Ambikapur, Surguja, demolishing over 60 illegally constructed houses on forest land. The operation, carried out under heavy police deployment, aims to reclaim forest land and enforce land-use regulations.
Finance Minister O.P. Choudhary has accused the previous Congress government of enabling illegal settlements in the area, sparking political controversy.
Bulldozers on Sacred Land
Bulldozers were deployed to clear forest land considered sacred by the locals. The operation targeted houses allegedly constructed without authorization, marking a significant step in the government’s efforts to reclaim encroached lands.
Key highlights of the operation:
- Target Area: Mahamaya mountain forest land in Surguja district.
- Number of Structures Demolished: Over 60 houses.
- Security Measures: Heavy police deployment ensured smooth execution of the drive and prevented resistance.
Political Fallout
Chhattisgarh Finance Minister O.P. Choudhary did not hold back, blaming the previous Congress government for facilitating illegal settlements in the area. “The previous regime helped people settle illegally. We are committed to restoring the sanctity of the forest land,” he said, sparking a war of words between political parties.
On the other hand, Congress leaders have accused the BJP-led government of targeting the weak and the gullible, without providing an alternative solution for their housing needs.
Sacred Mahamaya Mountain Under Threat?
Mahamaya mountain has religious importance to the local community. This further adds to the complexities of the issue of encroachment. While reclaiming forest land is essential, displacement of families without rehabilitation measures in place is grossly unfair.
Mixed Reactions from Locals
The drive has left the affected families in distress, with many alleging that they were not given prior notice or alternative housing arrangements. Local activist groups have raised concerns over the lack of a clear resettlement plan for those displaced.
However, environmentalists and conservationists have lauded the government’s effort to reclaim forest land, highlighting the importance of preserving sacred and ecologically sensitive areas.
Broader Implications
This anti-encroachment drive is part of a larger agenda to address unauthorized land use and preserve forest areas in Chhattisgarh. However, the operation raises critical questions:
- Where will the displaced families go?
- What measures will the government take to ensure fair rehabilitation?
The Chhattisgarh government’s bold move to clear encroachments on Mahamaya mountain highlights the complexities of balancing environmental conservation, religious sentiments, and human displacement. While the drive has reclaimed significant forest land, its social and political repercussions are far from over.