Supreme Court Takes Action Against Uttarakhand's Forest Land Encroachment: What’s Next?

The Supreme Court has launched a suo motu case against the Uttarakhand government for its inaction regarding widespread encroachment of forest land by private entities. The court expressed shock at the lack of intervention from state authorities and has ordered an immediate halt to all construction activities on forest land. A fact-finding committee will be established to investigate the extent of the encroachment. The next hearing is scheduled for January 5, where further actions may be determined. This case highlights the urgent need for government accountability in protecting environmental resources.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 22, 2025, 17:02 IST

Supreme Court's Stern Warning to Uttarakhand Government

New Delhi: On Monday, the Supreme Court expressed serious concerns regarding the extensive encroachment of forest land in Uttarakhand by private entities.

Initiating a suo motu case, the bench, led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, criticized the state authorities for their inaction, describing them as 'mute spectators' while illegal activities unfolded.

The court found it 'shocking' that protected forest areas were being encroached upon without any significant intervention from the government.

CJI Kant stated, 'It is shocking that the State of Uttarakhand and its officials are merely watching as forest land is seized right before them. Hence, we are starting a suo motu case.'

As a temporary measure, the Supreme Court has imposed an immediate halt on all construction activities on forest land and prohibited private parties from establishing any third-party rights over the contested areas.

The bench further instructed that all unoccupied land, excluding residential properties, should be transferred to the Forest Department.

'Private entities are barred from alienating the land or establishing any third-party rights. No construction is permitted. The Forest Department and the relevant Collector will take possession of vacant land, apart from residential houses,' the court ordered.

Additionally, the court directed the Chief Secretary and the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests to form a fact-finding committee to provide a comprehensive report.

The Supreme Court emphasized that this investigation is crucial to gauge the extent of the alleged land encroachment and the government's response over the years.

The suo motu proceedings were initiated following reports of thousands of acres of forest land being unlawfully occupied, including areas previously leased to a private society but later claimed by individuals, despite reverting to the Forest Department.

The next hearing is set for January 5, where the court will review the fact-finding committee's report and may issue further directives.