J&K Orders Review of Rejected Forest Rights Claims, Warns Officials

Jammu and Kashmir's Forests and Tribal Affairs Minister Javed Rana has ordered a comprehensive review of all cases rejected under the Forest Rights Act (FRA). This directive follows the issuance of fresh eviction notices to forest dwellers in the Kashmir Valley.

Minister Rana emphasized that rejected Forest Rights Act cases must be reassessed according to the Act's provisions and its associated rules, ensuring that eligible individuals are not denied their rightful claims. He stated that the decision-making authority for granting or rejecting claims rests with the Gram Sabha, not the department.

Rana indicated that officials must justify the basis for each rejection and identify who made these decisions. He also warned that officials found to be in violation of the Act would face the registration of First Information Reports (FIRs). The Tribal Affairs department has taken a serious view of actions taken against forest dwellers, particularly after a demolition incident in Jammu's Sidhra.

A recent circular from the Tribal Affairs department outlined a three-tier verification process where Gram Sabhas are the primary decision-makers. Aggrieved parties have recourse through appeals to sub-divisional and district-level committees, with the district committee's decision being final. The circular also stipulates that no forest dweller will be evicted until the recognition and verification process is completed.