Allegations of Biased Actions by Forest Department in Hadi Budha Tehsil Surankote

Описание: Allegations of Biased Actions by Forest Department in Hadi Budha Tehsil Surankote
Residents Seek Intervention of Cabinet Minister Javid Ahmed Rana



Surankote,| 21 January 2026 Serious allegations of discrimination and selective enforcement have surfaced from Ward No. 5 of Hadi Budha village in Surankote, where local residents have accused the Forest Department of targeting poor and economically weaker families while allegedly shielding influential and well-connected individuals involved in encroachment on forest land.

The affected residents stated that they belong to extremely poor backgrounds and lack the financial means or political influence to protect themselves. According to them, their houses were demolished by the Forest Department on the grounds of illegal construction on forest land, whereas in other parts of the area, several influential persons have constructed large bungalows and permanent structures on forest land without facing any action.

Locals alleged that the action taken by the department reflects clear bias, as those with strong political connections, financial power, and personal relations with officials continue to enjoy protection. They claimed that despite visible and long-standing constructions on forest land by affluent individuals, no demolition drives have been carried out against them, raising serious questions about the fairness and transparency of the department’s functioning.

Residents further alleged that the demolitions carried out in their ward were not purely based on legality but were influenced by their inability to pay money or offer bribes. “We are poor people; we had no money to give, which is why our houses were demolished. Those who have influence and approach are being spared,” the residents stated while expressing deep anguish over the loss of their homes.

The affected families emphasized that their houses were built out of sheer necessity for shelter and survival, and that they had no alternative accommodation. They termed the action as unjust, inhumane, and discriminatory, particularly when similar or even larger constructions by powerful individuals remain untouched.

In light of these allegations, the residents of Ward No. 5, Hadi Budha village, have appealed to Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet Minister Javid Ahmed Rana to intervene in the matter. They urged the minister to take serious cognizance of the issue, order a thorough and impartial inquiry, and ensure that the law is applied uniformly, without discrimination between the rich and the poor.

The residents demanded that if action is to be taken against encroachments, it should be carried out fairly and equally against all violators, irrespective of their status, wealth, or connections. They also sought rehabilitation and relief for the affected poor families who have been rendered homeless due to the demolition drive.

The incident has sparked concern among locals and civil society members, who believe that selective implementation of law erodes public trust in institutions and disproportionately harms marginalized communities. The residents reiterated that their demand is not to violate the law but to ensure justice, transparency, and equal treatment for all citizens.

They expressed hope that the government will take prompt and decisive steps to restore faith among the people and ensure that no citizen is victimized due to poverty or lack of influence.