Srinagar, Oct 23 (KNO): The Jammu and Kashmir government is reviewing the rejection of a majority of applications filed under the Forest Rights Act (FRA), Minister for Tribal Affairs Javid Ahmad Rana said on Friday, acknowledging that implementation of the legislation in the Union Territory has been slow.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a function in Srinagar, Rana, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said around 42,000 to 47,000 applications had been received under the Act, but most were rejected.
"We have received around 42,000 to 47,000 applications under the Forest Rights Act, but a majority were rejected. We are now seeking details to ascertain the grounds on which these applications were rejected," he said.
Rana said the government was examining implementation challenges and shortcomings while drawing lessons from states that had made greater progress in extending FRA benefits to tribal communities.
The minister said dedicated FRA cells had been established and two representatives appointed in each district to coordinate with the government, Gram Sabhas and tribal communities in processing claims.
He said directions had been issued to prevent evictions and demolitions without due legal process.
"Earlier, tribal communities were facing demolitions and removal of their structures. The Tribal Affairs Department and Forest Department subsequently issued circulars making it clear that no eviction or demolition should take place without following proper legal procedures," he said.
Rana said poor families would not face arbitrary demolition drives, while action against illegal constructions and encroachments would continue in accordance with the law.
Referring to last year's demolition drive at Raika-Ban in Jammu, he said the inquiry report had been forwarded to the Chief Minister and the Lieutenant Governor.
"The inquiry has identified certain shortcomings, including failure to follow proper legal procedures. The report has been submitted to the Lieutenant Governor and further action will be taken," he said.
The minister said some issues fell beyond the direct authority of his department due to Jammu and Kashmir's dual administrative structure.
Stressing the importance of Gram Sabhas, Rana said they play a central role in implementing the Act and can function even in the absence of elected Panchayats with the participation of community members and officials.
On irregularities flagged by a Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly House Committee in the implementation of certain schemes, Rana said Deputy Commissioners of the concerned districts would be appointed as inquiry officers to investigate the matter and submit reports to the government—(KNO)