The National Green Tribunal has launched an investigation into the alleged encroachment of around 100 acres of forest land in Motu, Malkangiri districtThe NGT noted that authorities have constructed a city on this seized land.
The tribunal questioned the construction of roads, buildings, and wire fences on forest land, allegedly funded by various government schemes, including Mindaga. It notified the PCCF, the Forest Department, and the Malkangiri District Collector, directing them to submit their responses at least a week before the next hearing on December 3.
Notably, political tensions have escalated over the Motu land-grabbing incident. The BJP accused the previous government of illegally seizing the land, while the BJD refuted these claims.