Mandya: Mandya District Superintendent of Police Dr. Ashwini created a controversy by cutting 11 Ashoka trees in her official residence on Monday September 13.
The move of SP has attracted widespread condemnation from environmentalists and pro-people organisations. The officer who is supposed to protect the trees has gone ahead and cut trees, which has irked people.
It is mandatory to take permission from the Forest Department to cut trees but the SP did not take any permission. She cut trees using trainee policemen and transported them.
Human Rights Seva Kendra founder Siddalingegowda has complained to the Chief Minister, Home Minister, Director-General of Police (DGP) and court urged to take stern action against SP.
Sources said that the SP cut trees to suit Vastu. The SP Ashwini told reporters that she cut only branches of trees as it was touching the electricity line.
Mandya Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) P. Ravi Shankar said that as per the forest conservation act no permission is needed to cut Ashoka trees. But the land belongs to the State Government hence permission is needed to cut trees. He said he has asked for a report from Range Forest Officer and will take action after he receives the report.