Apple Growers Should Understand Legal Aspects Before Making Allegations: Jagat Singh Negi

Shimla, July 15 – The political heat has intensified over the removal of apple and other fruit orchards grown through encroachment on forest land in Upper Shimla. Responding to the Apple Growers’ Association’s recent remarks, Revenue and Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi advised that those questioning the High Court’s orders should first study the legal framework surrounding the issue.

Negi clarified that the High Court had passed its verdict in January, and the state government had filed an application today seeking a temporary stay on the felling of trees. However, the court rejected the plea. He further explained that the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and encroachment laws are entirely separate legal provisions. While the FRA has been in effect since 2008, many individuals failed to submit their claims within the stipulated timeframe. “There is no contradiction on the part of the government,” he emphasized.

He cited the case of 32 residents from Chaithla village, which went through multiple legal channels—first the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), then the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), followed by the Divisional Commissioner, and finally the High Court, which issued the final directive.

On Jairam Thakur’s Allegations of Delay in Relief and Rehabilitation

Responding sharply to Leader of the Opposition Jairam Thakur’s accusations of delay in relief and rehabilitation work, Negi said it is inappropriate to indulge in politics during a crisis. “The opposition leader speaks from both sides of the mouth—on one hand, he says the government is working, and on the other, claims nothing is being done,” he remarked.

He stated that over 50 machines are currently deployed in the Seraj region, and while continuous rainfall has made it difficult to reopen certain internal roads quickly, efforts are ongoing at full pace.