Haryana Forest Department Under Fire: Whistleblower Suspended After Exposing Illegal Tree Felling
Gustakhi Maaf Haryana – Pawan Kumar Bansal
The Haryana Forest Department has come under serious scrutiny following allegations that instead of addressing corruption and illegal activities, it is targeting those who expose them.
In a post titled “Gustakhi Maaf Haryana”, Pawan Kumar Bansal raised strong concerns over what he described as a troubling pattern within the department — “Why check corruption? Shoot the whistleblower.” According to the write-up, this appears to be the prevailing attitude of certain officials in the department.
The controversy stems from a recently highlighted case involving the alleged illegal cutting of Khair trees in the protected Shivalik areas of Panchkula. The issue was earlier brought to public attention through a post that included photographic evidence purportedly showing mafia-led illegal felling of trees in the ecologically sensitive region.
However, instead of taking decisive action against those responsible for the illegal cutting, the department has reportedly suspended Vijay Kumar, who had recorded and shared a video exposing the activity. Critics allege that Vijay Kumar’s suspension sends a disturbing message — that individuals who attempt to reveal wrongdoing may face punitive consequences.
The incident has sparked debate among environmental activists and concerned citizens, who argue that protected forest areas require stricter monitoring and enforcement. They further stress that whistleblowers should be protected rather than penalized, especially when they act in the interest of environmental conservation.
As of now, there has been no detailed official clarification from the department regarding the grounds of the suspension. Observers say the case raises larger questions about transparency, accountability, and the handling of corruption allegations within government departments.
The matter is expected to draw further attention in the coming days as demands for an impartial inquiry grow louder.