Now Reading: MP restores legal protection for forest staff using firearms
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MP restores legal protection for forest staff using firearms
The Madhya Pradesh government on Friday restored legal protection for forest personnel using firearms on duty, following a Supreme Court order of July 22, 2026. A notification under Section 218(2) of the…
The Story in Brief
The Madhya Pradesh government on Friday restored legal protection for forest personnel using firearms on duty, following a Supreme Court order of July 22, 2026. A notification under Section 218(2) of the BNSS, 2023, covers Forest Guards, Range Officers, and other officers, requiring a magisterial inquiry before any FIR or arrest can be made for use of force.
The move comes four years after the Lateri firing incident in 2022, when forest staff protesting criminal cases surrendered their firearms. The Supreme Court, in suo motu proceedings on illegal sand mining, noted the 'highly dangerous task' of forest officials and directed the government to act without further delay. Officials say the measure aims to protect bona fide enforcement while ensuring accountability.
The Indian Opinion
Many will welcome this move as overdue justice for frontline staff who risk their lives against poachers and smugglers. But the fear of misuse remains real. The safeguard relies on independent magisterial inquiry, yet the same district magistrates often face pressure from local interests. The real test will be how many inquiries find force 'unnecessary', and how transparently those findings are made public.
Source: newindianexpress.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
