The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a fine of Rs 10,000 on the Meghalaya government for failing to submit a reply in a case related to forest land encroachment. The tribunal’s Eastern Zone Bench in Kolkata expressed concern over the state’s lack of response and directed it to file its report within two weeks.
The penalty marks another instance where the tribunal has taken a strict stance against delays in environmental cases. Officials said the case concerns alleged encroachment on forest land by private parties, which remains unresolved due to the state’s repeated absence and delayed filings.
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NGT fines Meghalaya for delay in action
The bench, led by Justice B. Amit Sthalekar and expert member Arun Kumar Verma, stated that Meghalaya had failed to comply with earlier directions despite being given adequate time. The NGT noted that the state’s inaction reflected poorly on its commitment to protecting forest resources.
The tribunal observed that protecting forest land is a constitutional duty under Article 48A, which requires the state to safeguard the environment. The order stated that such negligence cannot be tolerated, especially when forest land continues to face threats from encroachment.
The bench said that the NGT fines Meghalaya not only as a penalty but also as a reminder for the state to treat environmental issues seriously. It warned that continued negligence would attract stricter action in the future.
Officials from the Meghalaya Forest Department have been directed to file a detailed affidavit explaining the current status of the encroached area, steps taken to evict illegal occupants, and measures implemented to prevent future encroachments.
Case background and earlier hearings
The forest encroachment case dates back to 2023 when environmental activists filed a petition alleging that portions of forest land in the Ri-Bhoi and West Khasi Hills districts had been illegally occupied. The petition claimed that private individuals had cleared forest areas for agricultural and construction purposes.
The NGT took up the matter and sought detailed reports from the state on the extent of encroachment, the number of illegal structures identified, and actions taken against offenders. However, despite multiple notices, the Meghalaya government failed to submit its affidavit on time.
During the previous hearing, the bench had cautioned the state about its repeated delays. It had stressed that forest conservation cannot be compromised by administrative inefficiency. However, when the government once again failed to respond, the tribunal decided to impose a monetary fine.
Environmental lawyer and activist groups welcomed the NGT’s decision. They said that accountability from state agencies is crucial for ensuring environmental protection. “When the government delays action, encroachers get more time to expand illegal activities. The NGT’s fine sends a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated,” said one activist.
Meghalaya’s response and next steps
Officials from the Meghalaya Forest and Environment Department acknowledged the NGT’s direction and said they would file the required report within the stipulated two-week period. They added that the department had already begun reviewing the encroachment cases to prepare an updated action plan.
A senior forest official said that the department faces challenges in identifying encroachments in remote forest areas due to difficult terrain and lack of manpower. However, he admitted that timely reporting is essential and promised improved coordination with district forest offices.
The official added that eviction drives were already under consideration in some affected zones. “We have instructed field officers to verify land records and identify illegal occupants. Once the verification is complete, we will proceed with legal action,” he said.
The NGT also directed the state to submit photographic evidence and satellite maps showing the encroached regions. The tribunal stressed that the report must include steps taken to restore the forest and prevent further violations.
Environmentalists call for stronger monitoring
Environmental groups have long warned about rising encroachments in Meghalaya’s forest areas. Many blame unregulated land use and weak enforcement for the gradual loss of green cover. According to them, several forest zones, including community forests and reserved areas, have been encroached upon for farming, housing, and quarrying.
The NGT fines Meghalaya case has reignited discussions about the need for stronger forest governance. Activists said the government must treat forest encroachment as a serious environmental crime, not just a land dispute.
They also called for better use of satellite mapping and technology to detect illegal land clearing. “Modern tools can help identify encroachments quickly. But without consistent monitoring and strict follow-up, such cases will keep rising,” said a Shillong-based conservationist.
The Meghalaya government has been under pressure to balance development with environmental protection. While infrastructure and housing projects have expanded in recent years, experts warn that unchecked growth could lead to irreversible ecological damage.
A reminder for all northeastern states
The NGT’s decision serves as a reminder to other northeastern states facing similar challenges. Many states in the region, including Assam, Nagaland, and Manipur, are dealing with forest encroachments linked to agriculture, mining, and settlement expansion.
Legal experts said that the NGT fines Meghalaya order underscores the need for timely compliance with environmental directives. “When states ignore tribunal orders, it delays justice and weakens environmental governance. The NGT’s fine is symbolic but powerful,” said a Guwahati-based legal analyst.
He added that the penalty amount may be small, but its message is clear — the tribunal will not allow bureaucratic delays to stand in the way of environmental protection.
Ensuring accountability and long-term reform
Following the NGT’s order, Meghalaya’s forest department is expected to strengthen its coordination with district officials and local councils. Experts recommend regular joint inspections, digital record keeping, and community engagement to prevent future encroachments.
Civil society groups have urged the government to make its future reports public for greater transparency. They said that the public has a right to know how forest lands are being protected and restored.
As Meghalaya prepares to submit its affidavit within the next two weeks, all eyes are on whether the government will act swiftly to address the concerns raised. The NGT fines Meghalaya case stands as a test of the state’s commitment to safeguarding its natural heritage — a reminder that environmental responsibility cannot be postponed.
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