Forest Department Staff in Odisha to be Armed and Protected from Prosecution
In a significant move to safeguard wildlife and forest personnel, the Odisha state government has decided to arm forest department staff and provide them with immunity from prosecution. This decision comes in response to the increasing threats to forest conservation and the recent tragic deaths of two forest officials at the hands of poachers in the Similipal Tiger Reserve. With the provision of firearms and legal protection, the government aims to boost the morale of the 9,400-strong forest force.
While the government acknowledges the risks associated with the use of firearms, it is also aware of the need to shield forest personnel from unwarranted criminal proceedings. The government notification emphasized the importance of using firearms responsibly and stated that forest personnel will only face criminal proceedings if the use of firearms is deemed unnecessary, excessive, or unwarranted in an inquiry conducted by an executive magistrate. The initiation of criminal proceedings will rely on the government accepting the findings of the inquiry report.
S.K. Popli, the principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife), further explained that the decision to provide better or additional arms to forest personnel will be made by the department at a later stage. Currently, forest department staff are already armed, but the need for improved weaponry will be evaluated based on the requirements of patrolling vulnerable areas. Regions such as Similipal, Athgarh forest division, Satkosia Tiger Reserve, and others prone to poaching may require better arms. The department aims to provide necessary training on firearm usage before arming staff in these areas.
The announcement of arming forest personnel and granting immunity has been well-received, particularly by the Odisha non-gazetted forest service association. Members of the association expressed their satisfaction with the decision and now seek better weapons and proper training for the forest staff. However, it’s uncertain whether the association will call off their planned cease work, scheduled to begin on July 10.
A senior forest officer highlighted that the provision of weapons will be tailored to those staff members who require them during patrols in vulnerable areas. They also emphasized that proper training on firearm usage will be provided to ensure responsible deployment.
The decision by the Odisha government to arm forest department staff and provide them with immunity from prosecution marks a significant step towards protecting wildlife and conserving forests. By equipping forest personnel with the proper tools and legal safeguards, the government aims to enhance their ability to tackle poaching and other threats effectively. This move is expected to boost morale within the forest department and improve overall conservation efforts in the state.
Note: This article is a review of the existing news piece and does not represent any personal opinions or perspectives.
