Patna High Court Takes Action Against Forest Officer's Arbitrary Decisions
The Patna High Court expressed strong disapproval on Monday. It directed the state government to transfer a divisional forest officer. The officer faced criticism for his arbitrary actions while serving in Rohtas district.
Court's Stern Order Against DFO Pradumn Gaurav
A single bench of Justice Sandeep Kumar issued the order. The bench heard writ applications from Deepak Kumar Singh and seventeen other vehicle owners. Justice Kumar found the officer's conduct deeply disturbing.
The court noted that DFO Pradumn Gaurav acted with prima facie arbitrariness. He failed to apply his mind properly. Despite knowing about pending court cases, he proceeded with vehicle auctions. He did not inform the court about his actions.
Justice Kumar made his position clear. He stated such an officer should not continue in a responsible post. The court directed his immediate transfer from Ara in Bhojpur district. He must report to the department headquarters instead.
Specific Complaints from Transporters
Among the eighteen petitioners, Santosh Kumar presented a specific case. He showed an inter-state permit issued by the Jharkhand government. The permit was for his truck loaded with stone chips.
Despite this valid documentation, the DFO proceeded with confiscation. The officer's actions appeared illegal and unjustified. This case highlighted the pattern of arbitrary behavior.
Government's Response and Next Hearing
On Tuesday, the state government counsel Anant Prasad Singh informed the court. The government preferred an intra-court appeal against the transfer order. This appeal will go before a division bench of the high court.
The matter remains active before Justice Sandeep Kumar's single bench. The next hearing is scheduled for January 27. The court will continue to monitor this situation closely.
The Patna High Court's order emphasizes judicial oversight. It shows the court's commitment to preventing arbitrary exercise of power. The transfer directive aims to protect citizens from suffering further injustice.
