NGT issues notice to panchayat head, secy over damage to banyan tree

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued notices to the panchayat head and secretary of Siddhpur village in Kangra district, besides officials of the forest department, seeking their response to allegations of damage caused to a 500-year-old banyan tree located opposite the village school.

The dispute surfaced after excavation began for construction near the school gate, reportedly damaging the roots of the ancient tree. It is alleged that a portion of the roots was cut during the levelling of the site for the proposed construction.

A former village head Paramjit Mankotia approached the NGT, calling the act a violation of natural and cultural heritage. In his complaint, he named panchayat representatives, members of the construction committee and forest department officials as respondents, accusing them of neglecting environmental norms and failing to act responsibly.

Mankotia stated in his complaint that the people of Siddhpur village consider the banyan tree a living heritage that has stood witness to generations.

During its preliminary hearing, the NGT expressed concern and directed the officials, including the panchayat head and secretary, to submit their replies within two months.

The Green Tribunal observed that centuries-old trees were not merely vegetation but symbols of cultural and ecological significance and their protection is essential.