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Rishikesh (Uttarakhand), December 29:
Tension gripped Rishikesh on Monday as residents protested against a Forest Department survey of 2,866 acres of government forest land leased to private individuals. The agitation escalated when protesters blocked railway tracks, disrupted traffic, and pelted stones at forest officials and police personnel, prompting heavy security deployment.
Residents expressed fear of displacement, stating that they had invested their life savings in purchasing homes on the disputed land.
Residents Express Anger, Fear of Eviction
Local residents accused authorities of acting abruptly without addressing their concerns.
“We request not to be troubled. Boards should not be placed outside our plots. We spent our life savings on these homes. Where will we take our children?” a resident said.
They also questioned the role of local authorities, asking whether municipal officials were unaware of housing construction in the area over the years.
Protest Linked to Supreme Court Orders
Meanwhile, Bapugram Councillor Ravindra Rana clarified that the action follows directives issued by the Supreme Court of India.
“The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance of the matter and made the Chief Secretary a party to the case. The government is acting under court orders. The local people are protesting in a Gandhian manner, and the Chief Minister is concerned about the situation,” Rana said.
Earlier, the Supreme Court criticised Uttarakhand authorities for acting as “silent spectators” over the alleged illegal occupation of forest land.
2,866 Acres of Forest Land Under Investigation
The disputed land, originally leased to private entities such as the Pashu Lok Seva Samiti near Rishikesh, allegedly witnessed large-scale encroachment. Consequently, the Supreme Court ordered:
- Immediate inquiry by a high-level committee
- Freeze on sale or transfer of disputed land
- Ban on construction activities
- Forest Department to take possession of vacant land
Authorities must submit a compliance report by January 5, 2026.
Heavy Security Deployed After Protest Escalates
Following the protest, police and administrative officials deployed additional security forces to restore normalcy. However, despite repeated appeals, protesters initially refused to vacate highways and railway tracks.
Later in the night, the Senior Superintendent of Police visited the site, reviewed the situation, and instructed on-ground teams to ensure law and order.
Forest Department Continues Survey Under Supervision
Despite resistance, the Forest Department continued its land survey under strict supervision, following the Supreme Court’s directions. Meanwhile, authorities remain stationed in the area to prevent further disturbances and maintain peace.
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