Archive · 31 Jul 2025
Adilabad Officials Seek Authority to Curb Illegal Forest Activities
In Adilabad, officials are worried about the forests being destroyed by people cutting down trees illegally and taking over the land.
Some people, called Multhanis, are accused of being involved in this.
Forest officials say they need more power and protection because they are being attacked.
Local politicians might be helping these groups to get votes.
The government is trying to help people find new jobs so they don't have to break the law.
The area used to be known for its forests, but now faces the challenge of protecting them from those involved in illegal activities.
Forest officials in Adilabad seek greater authority to protect forests amid rising illegal activities.
Members of the Multhani community are allegedly involved in teakwood smuggling and encroaching on forest land.
Forest officials report attacks and intimidation from those involved in illegal activities.
Local political leaders are reportedly supporting Multhani groups, potentially for political gain.
Authorities are offering alternative livelihoods and rehabilitation programs to deter illegal activities.
- Who
- Forest officials, Multhani community members, local politicians, and timber smugglers.
- What
- Forest officials in Adilabad are seeking more power to protect forests and stop illegal activities, including teakwood smuggling and encroachment.
- When
- Over the past 15 years
- Where
- Adilabad district, including Ichoda, Indravelli, Khanapur, Jannaram, and Kadam mandals.
- Why
- To protect forests and wildlife from illegal activities, including poaching and encroachment, and to offer alternative livelihoods.
Forest Officials
Multhani Community
Power and protection
Forest Officials
Seeking more power and protection to protect the forests from illegal activities.
Multhani Community
Multhanis are viewed as being involved in illegal activities such as timber smuggling and encroachment.
Podu Land
Forest Officials
Offer alternative livelihoods if families surrender the land.
Multhani Community
Multhanis feel the area is their 'Ghad' and resist legal processes
- Multhani Population (Adilabad)
- Around 6,500
- Encroached Forest Land (estimated)
- About 1,600 hectares
- Average Podu Land per Multhani Family
- 17 acres
- Fatalities of forest staff
- 6
- Notorious alleged wood smuggler detained
- Sheikh Shabbir
- Cases against Sheikh Shabbir
- 12 cases by police stations, 9 cases by forest department