Boudh: A forester posted in the Barapadar Section under the Kantamal Range of the Boudh Forest Division has been suspended over allegations of large-scale illegal tree felling and timber smuggling from the Sulia Protected Forest.
The suspended official, Buli Behera, was placed under suspension on Friday following an inquiry into the allegations. According to official sources, complaints had surfaced alleging widespread felling of trees and illegal transportation of timber from the protected forest area during Behera’s tenure in the section.
Subsequently, separate inquiries were conducted by the Kantamal Range Officer and the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), who submitted their findings to the higher authorities.
Based on the inquiry reports, the Regional Chief Conservator of Forests (RCCF), Brahmapur Circle, ordered disciplinary action against the forester.
Pending further orders, Behera has been attached to the office of the Divisional Forest Officer, Brahmapur. The suspension order also directs him not to leave the headquarters without obtaining prior permission from the competent authority.
