High Court Issues Contempt Warning to Haryana Forest Secretary Over Morni Hills Delays
In a stern rebuke to the Haryana government, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has warned of contempt proceedings against the state's Forest Secretary, Vasvi Tyagi, if survey and demarcation work in the Morni Hills forest area does not commence by April 16. This warning comes nearly nine months after the court admonished the state for what it termed a "lamentable illustration of classic administrative lethargy" in failing to conclude the forest settlement process for nearly four decades.
Court's Ultimatum and Timeline
The Bench, headed by Chief Justice Sheel Nagu, emphasized that the final order in this matter was issued on June 20, 2025. "It is now nine months, but the work of survey, demarcation, etc., has not yet started," the court noted, expressing frustration over the prolonged inaction. The court has set a clear deadline, stating that if the work does not begin by April 16, charges of contempt of court will be framed against Secretary Tyagi.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing on April 18, where the court will assess compliance with its directives. This step is crucial as the Morni Hills serve as a vital green cover, often described as the "lungs" for the tri-city area of Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Mohali, highlighting the environmental significance of the case.
State's Assurances and Court's Skepticism
During the proceedings, the Haryana government presented decisions from a March 17 meeting chaired by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HoFF), outlining steps to initiate the survey and demarcation of forest land comprising 14 "Bhojes" (land parcels). Key measures included:
- Directing the Forest Settlement Officer (FSO) to float tenders for survey demarcation.
- Initiating work on at least one Bhoj with revenue and forest officials.
- Deploying additional revenue staff, including a Kanungo/Naib Tehsildar along with 10 Patwaris.
However, the Bench indicated it was not inclined to accept these assurances at face value. "We would like to first assess the bona fides of the State Government, specially as regards making available men, material and machines to the FSO within a period of three weeks, so that he can start his work," the court asserted. This skepticism underscores the court's intent to ensure tangible progress rather than mere promises.
Background of the Petition
The case stems from a petition filed by Vijay Bansal against the Haryana government and other respondents. Bansal argued that residents of the Morni block qualify as traditional forest dwellers "from all angles and for all intents and purposes," yet efforts to secure social, economic, and political justice for them have been lacking at both political and administrative levels. The petition highlights long-standing issues in the forest settlement process, which has dragged on for decades without resolution.
The court's intervention is seen as a critical move to address environmental and legal concerns, ensuring that forest rights and conservation efforts are upheld in line with established laws and policies.
