Jharkhand HC Summons Forest Chief Over Lax Tiger Conservation

Ranchi: The Jharkhand High Court on Thursday pulled up the state government and the Forest Department for their “lax attitude” toward tiger conservation at the Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR).

Hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), a division bench of Chief Justice M.S. Sonak and Justice Rajesh Shankar expressed deep displeasure after the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) failed to file a personal affidavit despite clear prior orders. Instead, junior officials submitted a response on his behalf—an act the bench viewed as a disregard for court directives.

Court Mandates Personal Appearance

Making sharp observations during the hearing, the bench remarked that the PCCF is not taking the High Court’s instructions seriously. Consequently, the court ordered the PCCF and concerned forest officials to appear in person at the next hearing.

The court further clarified its stance on departmental accountability:

• Rejection of Submissions: The bench refused to accept affidavits filed by junior staff, insisting the PCCF provide personal responses to all specific queries.

• Amicus Curiae Suggestions: The court expressed dismay that the department has failed to share concrete information regarding significant suggestions offered by the Amicus Curiae.

• Comprehensive Reporting: The bench demanded a detailed compliance report regarding the protection and rehabilitation of wildlife, specifically focusing on tigers and elephants.

A History of Lapses

The High Court has previously questioned both Central and State officials regarding stalled conservation schemes and administrative disarray within the Palamu Tiger Reserve. While the court has expressed displeasure over animal protection lapses in past hearings, it has now adopted a more stringent approach due to the Forest Department’s lack of progress.

The PCCF must now file a detailed affidavit addressing the current status of the PTR and the specific steps taken toward wildlife rehabilitation.