Tree chopped; police, babus pass the buck

Tree chopped; police, babus pass the buck
The Times of India

Bangalore: Peltophorum Ferrugineum. To many, this might sound a tonguetwister. But “illegal’’ chopping of a branch of this tree early on Thursday was the topic of discussion in several government offices.

A businessman in Rajajinagar hired workers to chop the tree, which he claimed was causing inconvenience to residents. A group of youths, volunteering for some environmental non-government organisations, protested against the felling and there was huge drama in the area. The volunteers even lodged a complaint with the Rajajinagar police, but no FIR was filed. “We could not have filed the FIR because it is not a cognisable offence. We agree there has been a violation of the Tree (Protection) Act. But it comes under the juristriction of forest department,’’ Rajajinagar inspector Shammana said.

Under the Act, the person responsible for felling a tree should pay for the damages, including the value of wood plus tax. But district forest officer Parameshwara said it did not fall under his juristriction. “This comes under BMP’s horticulture department,’’ he maintained.

Tree officer Krishna said he was unable to initiate action due to want of staff. “The police should initiate action, not me. What can I do?’’ he asked. So where does the buck stop?