Action under relevant sections of IFA already initiated, Says DC Budgam
Srinagar: A case has been registered after a viral video showing a group of social media influencers driving vehicles across the green pastures along the Breinwar forests in Budgam, triggered widespread criticism online and calls for action against those involved in harming nature.
Officials said that an FIR has been lodged at Police Station Chadoora under relevant sections of the Indian Forest Act, following a complaint filed by the Forest Department.
In this case, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Dr. Bilal M. Bhat, while replying to a post on social media, said: “Action under relevant sections of IFA already initiated.”
The Forest Department, after verifying the authenticity of the viral video and confirming the location, submitted a formal complaint that led to the registration of the case.
The video showed the convoy of vehicles trampling through the meadows and moving off designated paths, drawing strong reactions from locals and environmental activists, who described the act as irresponsible in an ecologically sensitive area.
Range Officer Doodganga Chadoora, Zahoor Ali Khan, said an FIR has been registered and issued a clear warning to the public: “We appeal to everyone to desist from off-roading in the forest. Anyone found involved in such illegal activity in the future will be booked under relevant provisions of IFA. We are urging the general public to avoid activities that harm nature, and strict legal action will be taken against those violating these rules.”
Meanwhile, adventure enthusiasts have appealed to the authorities for the regularisation of rules, which would allow them to carry out off-road activities in designated areas under proper guidelines, without causing harm to sensitive ecological zones
