VC Gujjar, Bakerwal Board calls on Forest Minister

5 Dariya News

Srinagar 25-Oct-2016

Ch. Zafar Ali Khatana, Vice Chairman J&K State Advisory Board for the Development of Gujjars && Bakerwals called on Minister for Forests, Ch. Lal Singh and took up the issue of eviction of Gujjas and Bakerwals from Forest land/ areas.The Vice Chairman expressed concern about recent evictions by the Forest Department against the Gujjar and Bakerwal families dwelling in forest areas since decades.The Minister while expressing his sympathies towards Gujjars & Bakerwals community assured the Vice Chairman that the eviction drive shall be stopped forthwith to settle the issue amicably. He said in this direction a permanent permit card shall be prepared for each family which shall carry information regarding the areas of forests where the family shall dwell along with cattle during winter as well as summer season without any inconvenience.The Vice Chairman also discussed with the Minister, the implementation of Central Forest Act, 2006 which grants dwelling and other rights to the tribal community in forest areas.