Dharamshala, May 29
The Forest Department has suspended a forest guard posted in Lapiyana forest range after allegations of misconduct and a physical scuffle with a female Van Mitra. The department has also shifted its headquarters outside the Dharamshala Forest Division during the suspension period.
Police have registered an FIR in connection with the incident and an investigation is currently underway.
DFO Dharamshala Amit Sharma said the incident occurred on May 27, when the forest guard allegedly misbehaved with the female Van Mitra, leading to a scuffle. He said the woman sustained minor injuries during the incident.
Sharma said the department acted immediately after receiving a report from the Range Officer and suspended the accused forest guard with immediate effect.
“The matter is being taken seriously, and necessary departmental action has been initiated,” he said.
The DFO said the department has an Internal Complaints Committee at the divisional level consisting entirely of female members. The complainant has been asked to submit a written complaint before the committee for further proceedings under the provisions of the POSH Act.
Considering the seriousness of the allegations, the Forest Department has also ordered a preliminary detailed inquiry into the matter. Assistant Conservator of Forests Daulat Ram has been assigned to conduct the investigation.
