KODAGU LEGISLATORS, DC FACE CONTEMPT AS SC ADMITS APPLICATION;

Madikeri March 3, 2009

The Supreme Court has admitted an interlocutory application filed by Air marshal (Rtd) A.C.Cariappa against Deputy Speaker K.G.Bopaiah, MLA Appachu ranjan, MLC S.G.Medappa, Deputy Commissioner baladevkrishna and the then Conservator of forests, G.A.Sudarshan for bulldozing a road through Pushpagiri wild life sanctuary despite a stay order form the Supreme Court.

The Application has been referred to the central empowered committee (CEC) of the Supreme Court which is hearing the matter on 5th march 2009 in Delhi.

On 28th December 2008, legislators acting in concert with the DC and the then conservator of forests, Sudarshan allegedly took law into their habds and forced the formation of road through compartment 89 of Pushpagiri sanctuary. Under the nose of the legislators and officiers, large number of people bulldozed the forest to form the road, cariappa has alleged.

The Supreme Court on 14.2.2000 had prohibited even the removal of dead, dying or diseased trees including grass from any sanctuary or Natioanal park. It has also prohibited formation of any constructions like roads or bridges, in its order dated 25.11.2005. It had also blocked even improvement of roads and maintenance in such prohibited areas.

In spite of such clear orders, formation of road in Kadamakal reserve forest clearly violated the court order leading to contempt, Cariappa has stated in his appeal.

Asked for their comments, Deputy Speaker K.G.Boapaih, MLA Appachu Ranjan, MLC S.G.Medappa stated that they will handle the issue as the road is essential for public who can save dozens of kilometers to reach Subramanya.