Belthangady: Temporary resolution to Amminadka impasse; further action only after joint survey

Team Udayavani, Oct 9, 2023, 6:51 PM IST

Belthangady: The tense standoff following a dispute over the removal of an under-construction house by the forest department in Amminadka of Kalenja village, seems to have found a temporary resolution.

When Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), Antony Mariyappa, intervened in the matter, the people’s representatives offered two potential courses of action – either clear all houses under survey number 309 or conduct a joint survey encompassing both revenue and forest departments, subsequently granting rights to all concerned parties.

Following Mariappa’s visit, the matter was escalated to higher authorities, involving officials from the Forest Department including the  Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF), and Range Forest Officer (RFO). After careful analysis, consultations with the DK Deputy Commissioner, and seeking advice from the Tehsildar, DCF emphasized that a decision regarding the vacating of the house shall be made after a comprehensive joint survey of over 6000 acres of land that falls under survey number 309 conducted by both forest and revenue departments.

Furthermore, it was stipulated that the house in question should remain in its original state, with no reconstruction work permitted until the joint survey is completed. Should the area be classified as forest land, DCF obtained a written statement from MLA Harish Poonja, affirming their commitment to cooperate in its clearance.

MLA Harish Poonja, along with district MLAs Rajesh Naik, Bharat Shetty, Bhagirathi Murulya, Umanath Kotyan, MLC Pratapasimha Nayak, and Arun Kumar Putthila at the site underscored the gravity of the situation and the urgency in finding a resolution.

The assurance from DCF regarding the forthcoming joint survey and subsequent decision has provided a temporary conclusion to this complex matter.