Shivamogga: Avinahalli villagers in Sagar taluk stopped a truck loaded with acacia pulp and firewood on Sunday night, alleging violation of forestry regulations. The Village Forest Committee (VFC), which is entitled to a 50% share of the plantation yield, stopped the vehicle to verify its transport permits.When villager Lokesh Hunalumadike demanded to see the authorisation, the driver’s attempt to escape instead of producing the documents incensed the crowd. The truck was subsequently detained in the village for 24 hours.On Monday night, forest beat staff arrived at the spot to release the truck, but were unsuccessful due to the large crowd. Later, a staff member produced a permission letter that villagers claimed was issued in complete violation of established rules.As tensions escalated, Sagar range forest officer (RFO) Annappa and his team arrived but faced immediate backlash. The officials were unable to answer the villagers’ questions and seemed to concede that errors were made. Despite requests from the officials to release the vehicle, the villagers demanded that higher-ranking authorities visit the spot to address the issue.By Tuesday morning, Sagar assistant conservator of forests (ACF) Ravi Kumar met the agitated residents and promised that formal action would be taken. He said that a meeting was scheduled for Thursday to resolve the dispute.Village leader Lokesh told TOI that while the truck was released following the ACF’s intervention, the department must still account for at least two dozen loads allegedly looted from the area. He also noted that on Sunday alone, two trucks passed through without any notice or oversight.Following the protest, forest minister Eshwar Khandre has ordered a high-level probe. The minister has issued directives to principal chief conservator of forest that a APCCF rank official must be dispatched to the site to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the smuggling. The probe should specifically examine the suspected involvement of department personnel and any potential dereliction of duty, he said. A full report, including formal recommendations for action against guilty officials and staff, must be submitted within seven days, he said.
