Assam's Morigaon forest officials accused of harassing trader despite valid permit

Serious allegations have surfaced against a section of officials and employees of the Assam's Morigaon Forest Department, with a vehicle owner accusing them of harassing legitimate business operators despite possessing valid government permits.

 

According to the complainant, trucks transporting sand from legally approved sand mining areas after paying the required government royalties and obtaining valid challans are allegedly being subjected to unnecessary harassment. At the same time, numerous vehicles reportedly operating without proper documentation are allowed to pass unchecked.

 

The allegations have specifically been directed against Morigaon Range Forest Officer Munmi Gogoi.

 

The vehicle owner claimed that a sand-laden truck travelling from a sand mining site towards Guwahati was stopped by forest officials at Mayong. At the time, the truck was carrying a valid government-issued challan for transportation, with nearly three hours of validity remaining.

 

However, the complainant alleged that despite the valid documentation, the vehicle was not allowed to proceed and was detained for around three hours. According to the allegation, officials kept the truck stationary until the permit's validity expired.

 

The vehicle owner further claimed that once the challan expired, forest personnel allegedly seized the mobile phones of the driver and helper, preventing them from contacting the owner. Thereafter, an attempt was reportedly made to take the vehicle to the range office.

 

The allegations have sparked concerns among local traders and transporters, who have demanded a fair inquiry into the matter and action against any officials found guilty of misconduct. Forest Department authorities have not yet issued an official response to the allegations.