Strict Warning for Unlawful Extraction, Transportation & Sale of Forest Products

Ukhrul, June 19: In view of the Hon’ble High Court of Manipur’s order dated 25 July 2018 in PIL No. 25 of 2017, which directed that all forms of unregulated or illegal excavation of minor minerals are completely prohibited and banned irrespective of the location in the State,

Also, the Hon’ble High Court of Manipur, vide order dated 2 July 2017 in PIL No. 5 of 2019, has imposed a total ban on unauthorized stone quarrying, sand mining, river pollution, etc., in all rivers in the State, except in cases where a license or lease is granted in accordance with the law.

As per the order issued on 19 June 2025 by the DFO of Ukhrul Forest Division, Laishram Gitla stated that “violations of the order shall result in strict penal action” and also appealed for the cooperation of all stakeholders to ensure the protection and conservation of the forests of Ukhrul District.

Also read Farmer Injured in Alleged Kuki Militant Attack in Bishnupur District

The order reads:
“In response to the escalating environmental concerns, including erratic rainfall patterns, recent devastating floods, increased landslides, and the overarching impact of climate change which pose a direct threat to the ecological balance, biodiversity, and lives and livelihoods of the local populace, attention is drawn to the following judicial directions:

The Hon’ble High Court of Manipur, vide order dated 25.7.2018 in PIL No. 25 of 2017, has directed that all forms of unregulated or illegal excavation of minor minerals are completely prohibited and banned irrespective of the location in the State.

The Hon’ble High Court of Manipur, vide order dated 2.7.2017 in PIL No. 5 of 2019, has imposed a total ban on unauthorized stone quarrying, sand mining, river pollution, etc., in all rivers in the State, except in cases where a license or lease is granted in accordance with the law.

“Furthermore, timbers (sawn/round) of all classes, and minerals including hill earth and stone, are defined as forest produce under the Indian Forest Act, 1927 and Manipur Forest Rules, 2021. Therefore, removal/extraction/transport of such items without a permit and transit pass on payment of royalty and admissible charges violates the provisions of the Indian Forest Act, 1927 and the Manipur Forest Rules, 2021.

In view of the above, and in exercise of the powers conferred under the Indian Forest Act, 1927, and in accordance with the Manipur Forest Rules, 2021, it is hereby ordered that no individual or agency shall transport forest produce without a valid transit permit issued by the competent forest authority. All vehicles and equipment, i.e., trucks, tippers, excavators, etc., used for transporting forest produce without a valid permit will be seized, and prosecution will be initiated against the vehicle owner and consignee. The general public, transporters, and traders dealing with forest produce are strictly warned against engaging in any unlawful extraction, movement, or sale of forest produce without a valid permit or supporting documents.”

The order also directed the forest frontline field staff to maintain strict vigil and conduct random checks at entry/exit points to forest areas and to initiate strict immediate actions as per law. Failure to comply with the orders will attract disciplinary action.

Also read Kangpokpi Delegation Departs to Receive Air India Crash Victim’s Remains

It further added that “the violation of this order shall result in strict penal action including imprisonment, fines, and confiscation of equipment, vehicles, etc., used in the offence.”

The cooperation of all stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, village authorities, local organisations, and citizens, is sought to ensure the protection and conservation of the forests of Ukhrul District.