Archive · 16 Sep 2025
Bengal Admits Resorts on Forest Land, Faces NGT Scrutiny
Imagine a forest that's becoming a popular spot for tourists, like Sonajhuri.
Some resorts have been built there, but the government has now admitted that some of these resorts have been built on protected forest land.
An environmental group took this to court, and now the government has to answer for it.
They have sent notices to some resort owners and are waiting to see what happens next.
The area has seen a lot of construction and possible land grabs, leading to questions about how the land is being used.
The Bengal government admitted to resort encroachments on forest land in Sonajhuri.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is investigating the issue.
Notices have been served to several resorts for encroaching on forest land.
The WBPCB has expressed concerns about environmental violations and construction permits.
The case was initiated by environmentalist Subhas Datta regarding environmental norm violations.
- Who
- The Bengal government, forest department, and WBPCB.
- What
- Admitted to encroachment on forest land in Sonajhuri for resorts.
- When
- Recent years, with the NGT case filed in April this year.
- Where
- Sonajhuri forest in Santiniketan.
- Why
- Due to a case filed by environmentalist Subhas Datta regarding environmental violations.
Environmentalist/Residents
Resort Owners/Land Mafia
Forest Land Use
Environmentalist/Residents
The forestland should be protected and free from commercial activities and construction.
Resort Owners/Land Mafia
The land is suitable for resorts and tourism, providing economic benefits.
- Location
- Sonajhuri forest, Santiniketan, West Bengal
- Issue
- Encroachment of forest land by resorts
- Affected parties
- Forest department, WBPCB, environmentalist Subhas Datta
- Entities involved
- Sakuntala Guest House, Sonajhuri Atithi Nibas, Krishna Utsav Resort, Sumana Dasgupta
- Legal Body
- National Green Tribunal (NGT)
- Action
- Notices served to encroachers; WBPCB expressed dissatisfaction