Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, July 14
Himachal Pradesh Revenue and Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi has defended the ongoing felling of apple and fruit trees grown on forest land, stating that the action is being carried out strictly in compliance with a High Court order. His remarks come amid rising political and public outrage in upper Shimla, where apple growers have condemned the cutting of trees as unscientific and unjust. Speaking at a press conference, Negi urged the Himachal Apple Growers’ Union and other critics to examine the legal context before blaming the government.
“This matter was settled by the High Court in January. The government had even filed a plea seeking temporary relief from the tree-felling order, but the court rejected it,” said Negi. “Those questioning the decision must understand the legal difference between the Forest Rights Act and encroachment laws.”
He explained that many farmers failed to submit claims under the Forest Rights Act, 2008, within the stipulated timeframe, and therefore their orchards—planted on forest land—are now deemed encroachments. Citing the case of 32 individuals from Chaithala village, Negi said their claims passed through the offices of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), and Divisional Commissioner before being dismissed by the High Court.
Opposition leader Jai Ram Thakur has accused the state government of dragging its feet on relief and rehabilitation for affected orchardists. In a sharp rebuttal, Negi said it was inappropriate to politicise the issue during such a sensitive time. “On one hand, the opposition says the government is working, and on the other, it says nothing is happening,” he added, pointing out that over 50 machines are active in the Seraj region to restore internal roads disrupted by ongoing rain.
Meanwhile, the controversy has intensified following protests from farmer organisations. Former MLA and Kisan Sabha leader Rakesh Singha criticised the eviction drive, calling it inhumane and warning that tree felling during heavy monsoon rains could lead to disaster.
“The High Court was not fully informed, and the farmers are paying the price,” said Singha, who announced that a protest movement would be launched, with a roadmap to be finalised in Hatkoti on Monday.
The Himachal Pradesh High Court has so far declined to alter its stance, maintaining that encroachment on forest land must be cleared regardless of crop type or tree maturity.
