By TC News Desk
Agartala, 24th May 2025: A fresh wave of tension has erupted in the Raibari area of Udaipur over the long-standing issue of encroachment on government forest land. The latest controversy unfolded after six thousand saplings, reportedly planted by encroachers, were allegedly destroyed by residents from neighboring areas. The dispute has prompted swift intervention from local authorities, with police and forest department officials arriving at the scene to defuse the situation.
Encroachment in the Raibari area under Killa Forest Beat has been a persistent issue, exacerbated by what many describe as government indifference. This recurring conflict sees periodic clashes between local groups, and Saturday was no exception. According to sources, individuals occupying government land had recently acquired six thousand saplings from the forest department, submitting an application for permission to plant them. However, before formal approval was granted, the trees were planted on the disputed land—reportedly with the assistance of REGA workers and the local panchayat’s initiative.
The situation escalated this morning when encroachers alleged that trees planted in the area were cut down by land title holders from neighboring villages. The encroaching group has vowed to resist any future attempts to remove the trees, further intensifying tensions.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Gomati district’s Additional Superintendent of Police, Souvik Dey rushed to the site to speak with the involved parties. He confirmed that a report has been submitted to the Forest department urging officials to assess the matter and take appropriate action.
The controversy has reignited broader concerns over administrative oversight in managing encroachments. Critics argue that while illegal settlements have been established in forest areas, the administration has inadvertently facilitated their growth by providing basic amenities such as electricity and drinking water. With encroachment steadily increasing, calls for a permanent resolution—often framed as the “liberation of Baranchal”—are growing louder.
