Following criticism from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), MK Yadava, former Wildlife warden and current Special Chief Secretary of Assam, refuted allegations made against him.
In a media statement, Yadava responded to the NGT’s concerns, stating, “I have received a notice from the ministry under rule 15, with a deadline of 60 days expiring around July 15th or 16th, which I will comply with by submitting my report. The Assam government has taken possession of 6,000 to 10,000 hectares from the Inner Line Reserve forest, where our battalion faced restrictions preventing deployment.”
In response to the NGT’s directions, Yadava was issued a show cause notice by the Union Environmental Ministry, questioning his actions under the Forest Conservation Act (1980).
During a July 3 hearing at the NGT’s Eastern Bench regarding violations in Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary and Charduar Reserve Forest in Sonitpur District, Yadava was referenced in connection to alleged misconduct.
The NGT accused Yadava of illegally diverting 44 and 28 hectares of reserved forest land in Assam, expressing concerns over his post-retirement influence and its impact on Assam’s reputation.
Environmentalists, including Dilip Nath, criticized Yadava for alleged misuse of central funds and inadequate protection of Assam’s forests. Due to mistrust in the Assam government, the NGT has demanded photographic evidence of compliance with its directives.
Recently, the Assam Congress opposed Yadava’s reinstatement as Special Chief Secretary, citing allegations of misconduct, mismanagement of wildlife resources, and corruption. They emphasized the need for strict adherence to environmental laws and accountability.