Assam: Boko tense as forest dept faces allegations of protecting illegal timber trade

Tension escalated in Kaliyabori, Boko late Tuesday night after locals intercepted a vehicle allegedly carrying a large consignment of valuable teak timber, raising fresh allegations of collusion within the West Kamrup Forest Division.

Eyewitnesses reported that a TATA ACE (Reg. No. AS01 EC 2561) was stopped by local youths, who discovered a substantial quantity of teak concealed inside. Moments later, personnel from the Bamunigaon Forest Range arrived at the scene. Rather than supporting the vigilant residents, Forest Department officials allegedly fired a warning shot into the air and confronted the youths who had intercepted the vehicle.

Locals accused the department of shielding illegal timber traders — a recurring allegation in the region. “Night after night, timber-laden vehicles pass through the Boko–Poyranga route, and the authorities turn a blind eye. This is not the first time,” a resident said.

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During the confrontation, two to three youths were reportedly assaulted, and one, identified as Bidyut Das, was detained. Mobile phone footage circulated on social media allegedly shows Forest personnel physically assaulting the detainee. Boko Police eventually arrived to restore order.

The incident has reignited public outrage over the West Kamrup Forest Division’s perceived inability to curb a well-organised timber smuggling network. Despite repeated seizures and public protests, the illegal timber trade continues to flourish, raising serious questions about enforcement, accountability, and transparency within the department.