Take steps to reorganise forest rights committees, says DC

Meet over implementation of ST and other traditional Forest Dwellers Bill

Discussion was held indepth on formation of Grama Hakku Samiti (Forest Rights Committee). Noticing that Samitis have not been formed lawfully at some places, DC asked the Taluk Panchayat Executive Engineer, GP Secretaries and other officials concerned to take steps for the re-formation of the samitis. TP Executive Officer informed DC that 304 GP level Aranya Samitis were formed through Grama Sabhas. 

The Scheduled Tribe and other Traditional Forest Dwellers who have been living in forest land before December 13, 2005, are required to fill the personal and community claim applications and submit it to the Aranya Hakku Samiti along with required documents. Likewise, awareness programme on Forest Rights Bill will be held at Somwarpet on July 1, at Virajpet on July 4 and at Madikeri July 8.

Aranya Samiti members gave information on the various problems faced by the forest dwellers. They further requested the Superintendent of Police to take additional interest when SC/STs come to them for justice.  Samiti member J P Raju, H S Muthappa, H S Subbaiah were present. Deputy Conservator of Forest Akram Pasha, health co-ordinator, District Social Welfare Officer and others were present