A major environmental violation has come to light in the Amroha rural area of Uttar Pradesh, where two large mango trees were illegally felled on November 6 in an orchard located behind Kashiram Colony. Upon inspection, officials found that the wood from one tree was missing, while part of the other remained at the site. The trees, measuring 175 cm and 245 cm in thickness, were located on plot number 160 in village Mahuva.
The orchard is owned by Mr. Atiqur Rehman and his family, residents of Maulana Mohalla. According to the initial report, family members including Mr. Azimulshan, Ms. Imrana Begum, Ms. Shadmani Begum, Mr. Md. Azim, Mr. Md. Akhtar, Mr. Md. Athar, Mr. Md. Afzal, Mr. Md. Adil, and Mr. Md. Fazil were identified in connection with the incident.
Investigators revealed that contractor Mr. Ayaz, son of Mr. Arman, was responsible for cutting the trees with the consent of the orchard owners.
Senior IPS Officer Named in Tree Felling Case
In a surprising turn, the case also names Mr. Akhtar Rizvi, a senior IPS officer currently serving in the Delhi Police, among the accused. Mr. Rizvi and several family members have been alleged to have permitted the tree cutting without official permission, leading to environmental damage.
The inclusion of a senior police officer in an environmental case has drawn wide public attention and raised discussions about equal accountability under environmental and conservation laws.
Violation of Environmental Protection Norms
The official investigation report confirmed that felling trees without prior permission is a direct violation of environmental protection and forest conservation rules. The inquiry team seized the remaining wood and gathered on-site evidence to aid in the legal process.
Officials emphasized that such unauthorized actions not only breach legal norms but also threaten the ecological balance in rural regions. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to strict enforcement of environmental regulations to prevent recurrence of such incidents.
Police Register Case and Begin Investigation
A formal case has been registered at the Amroha Rural Police Station, and the police have initiated an independent investigation. The inquiry will determine who authorized the tree felling and where the missing timber was transported.
Law enforcement officials stated that interrogations of the contractor and orchard owners are being planned, with assurances that the investigation will remain impartial and evidence-based.
Public Reactions and Environmental Concerns
The incident has become a topic of local discussion, with many residents expressing surprise that influential individuals have been named in such a case. Environmental activists, however, have welcomed the action, stressing that cutting down trees without permission contributes to long-term ecological imbalance, affecting local climate, soil health, and biodiversity.
Officials and conservation groups have urged citizens to treat tree protection as a civic responsibility, emphasizing the state’s broader commitment to sustainable environmental governance.
Toward Stronger Environmental Enforcement
The Amroha incident highlights the growing need for stronger local-level monitoring, awareness, and accountability mechanisms to protect natural resources. The state government’s proactive stance in registering the case demonstrates a commitment to environmental protection and rule of law, ensuring that violations—irrespective of status—are addressed with transparency.
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