Forest land illegally occupied at remote Damcherra, local villagers raised protest

The continuous encroachment of Forest land by some illegal occupants has again noticed at tribal dominated Sundibasa area of Rahumcherra Village Council of Damcherra under Panisagar subdivision of North Tripura district, where a man illegally occupied government forest land and built a house, evicting the rightful residents.

The accused illegal occupant has been identified as Kamal Uddin, who allegedly began constructing a house on forest department land near the Sundibasa area after evicting a local family.

Locals reported that Kamal Uddin and his sons forcibly evicted a family and started occupying the land. When the family protested, they were attacked. The injured, including a legal houseowner Krishnababu Sinha and his son, were admitted to the hospital.

Reportedly, Kamal Uddin had earlier been evicted by the forest department for illegally planting trees. After years, he returned with the help of a local influential person and started reclaiming the land. He also started threatening locals to vacate nearby land.

Locals claim that despite complaints, no effective steps were taken. One night, when police finally arrived, they did not take action, and the next day, the encroachers returned. The accused continues to construct houses and sell parts of the land.

Forest department officials stated they are not responsible for evicting illegal occupants. However, local residents alleged that some officials are associated with the encroachers. This has created a tense situation in the area.

In protest, villagers have submitted written complaints to various authorities including the police and Forest department. They are demanding proper investigation and immediate action against the illegal land grabbers. If no steps are taken, they have warned of launching a larger movement in coming days.