Kanha Forest Guards Arrested: In Kanha National Park of Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh, the police have arrested two forest guards for having a relationship with Maoists. This arrest under UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act) has increased concern and insecurity among the employees of the forest department.
Forest employees trapped between the Maoist and the police are now feeling in danger and demanding transfers. Some forest officials have questioned action under UAPA
What is the matter?
According to the Times of India report, the police arrested 28 -year -old Ashok Kumar Lal and Santosh Kumar Lal during the recent encounter between Maoists and the police. A militant was killed in this encounter.
Police allegations:
Both forest guards were informing the Maoists about the activities of the security forces. They used to indicate Maoists by playing special types of whistles or colliding with stones. Maoists were also helping in the necessary materials and logistics supply. At the same time, forest officials say that both the forest guards were under pressure from the Maoists. They were collecting food and ration only for the Maoists, not in the exchange of any intelligence information. Forest employees are trapped between the fear of both the Maoists and the police.
An atmosphere of fear among forest department employees
The forest official says, “Our people are not afraid of tigers, but are afraid of the police.” After the arrest, many employees of the forest department are demanding transfer as there is a danger of police action on cooperation with the Maoists. There is also a fear of violence of rebels for not cooperating. The police is now anticipating deep infiltration of supporters of Maoists into the forest department.
Maoist impact and security forces challenge
Kanha Tiger Reserve is one of the most prestigious tiger sanctuaries in India. According to the police, the activities of Maoists have been observed in 40% of the main area of ​​Kanha. Extremism is increasing in areas bordering Balaghat.
Please tell that joint camps of forest and police are present in Mukki area. The security structure in the Khatia region is weak, which makes the infiltration easier for the Maoists. Some forest officials believe that it is unfair to implement a tough stream like UAPA without intensive investigation.
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