Save Hasdeo Arand: In response to the contentious tree-felling incidents in the Hasdeo forest for mining activities, Chhattisgarhs opposition party, Congress, has formed an eight-member fact-finding team to investigate the matter.Fact-Finding Team CompositionAccording to a report by TOI, led by Chhattisgarh Pradesh Congress Committee (CPCC) President Deepak Baij, the committee includes senior tribal leader Premsai Singh as the coordinator, former Deputy Chief Minister TS Singhdeo, former minister Amarjeet Bhagat, Dr Pritam Ram, Bhanu Pratap Singh, Gulab Kamro, Safi Ahmad, Rakesh Gupta, and Bhagwati Rajwade.Investigating Hasdeo Aranya AreaThe fact-finding teams focus will be on the Ghatabarra Coal Project in the Hasdeo Aranya area in Surguja district. Approximately 93 hectares of land have seen tree-cutting by the district administration and forest department for the project.Congress Governments ResolutionHighlighting the previous resolution passed by the Congress government on July 27, 2022, to cancel coal block allocations in Hasdeo, Tamor Pingla, and Korbas elephant reserve area, Baij expressed concern over the Modi governments stance on coal mining, seemingly prioritising it over environmental conservation.BJP Counters AccusationsIn response, the BJP accused the CPCC Chief of engaging in political manoeuvres regarding Hasdeo forests tree-cutting. BJP spokesperson Devalal Thakur argued that the Congress, previously involved in similar activities, is now raising concerns for political gain.Environmental Impact and Political DynamicsAs the fact-finding team gears up to assess the situation and engage with local stakeholders, the environmental impact of mining activities in the Hasdeo forest remains a focal point in the political discourse between the Congress and the BJP.
