Sandalwood Scandal at BHU: Unauthorized Tree Felling Sparks Controversy

The divisional forest officer reported to the National Green Tribunal that Banaras Hindu University illegally cut seven sandalwood trees, among 161 felled, exceeding the permitted 135. Despite security measures, the wood vanished mysteriously. The incident raises questions about the university's oversight and protections against illegal activities.

The divisional forest officer of Varanasi has reported a significant breach at the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) to the National Green Tribunal. Allegations point to the illegal felling of seven sandalwood trees, amid a total of 161 trees, when permission had only been granted for 135.

This disclosure comes after a joint committee, comprising officials from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, investigated claims of unauthorized tree felling on the 1,300-acre campus. Despite security guards and CCTV cameras, the trees were felled and mysteriously transported off-site without detection.

The case invites scrutiny on the university's administrative practices, especially since an FIR lodged failed to cover details of the sandalwood theft. The inability to track the missing wood casts suspicion on the university's efforts to curb illegal activities and maintain robust security measures.

(With inputs from agencies.)