Unraveling the Anomaly: Investigating Unauthorized Transfers of Forest Officers in Uttar Pradesh

The Uttar Pradesh government faced scrutiny after nearly 80 transfers of regional forest officers were carried out by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forest without seeking proper permission from senior officials. The Minister of State for Forest and Environment, Arun Kumar Saxena, raised concerns about the urgency of these transfers despite the department being granted an extension till September for the process. An inquiry has been ordered to investigate the reasons behind the unauthorized transfers and potential violations of established norms.

Minister's Concerns and Inquiry Initiated

Arun Kumar Saxena, the Minister of State for Forest and Environment, pointed out an "anomaly" in the transfer of around 80 forest department officers. He raised questions about the urgency of these transfers, considering that the department had been granted an extension till September to carry them out, instead of the initial deadline of June 30. As a result of his concerns, an inquiry has been launched to understand the reasons behind these transfers and whether proper approvals were obtained.

ALSO READ: 

 Unauthorized Transfers Cancelled

Upon discovering the unauthorized transfers of regional forest officers, the Uttar Pradesh government took prompt action to correct the mistake. Nearly 80 transfers were cancelled to prevent any adverse impact. The cancellation was done to avoid disrupting the ongoing afforestation drive, which has been praised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his 'Mann Ki Baat' program. The transfers were carried out just days before the retirement of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Mamta Sanjeev Dubey, further raising questions about their propriety.

Afforestation Drive and Importance of Proper Consultation

The forest department had been engaged in an afforestation drive, and the government had extended the transfer deadline to September to accommodate this crucial initiative. The relaxation was given considering the significance of meeting the five crore plantation target by August 15. However, it was observed that proper consultation and approval procedures were not followed during the transfer process, leading to concerns about potential violations of established norms.

Ongoing Inquiry to Uncover Violations

The ongoing inquiry seeks to shed light on the reasons behind the unauthorized transfers and the lack of proper consultation. It will investigate whether the transfers were necessary and justified despite the extension of the transfer deadline. The inquiry will play a crucial role in identifying any violations of norms and ensuring accountability in the process.

The unauthorized transfers of regional forest officers in Uttar Pradesh have raised concerns about adherence to established norms and proper consultation procedures. The prompt action taken by the government to cancel these transfers and initiate an inquiry reflects their commitment to transparency and accountability. The ongoing inquiry will provide valuable insights into the decision-making process and help prevent similar incidents in the future, ensuring the smooth functioning of the forest department's crucial afforestation drive.