Uttarakhand Removes IFS Rahul as Rajaji Tiger Reserve Director Over Tree Cutting Allegations

GG News Bureau
Dehradun, 5th Sept. The Uttarakhand government has removed Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer Rahul from his position as Director of the Rajaji Tiger Reserve, following instructions from Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The Forest Department issued the orders on Tuesday, September 3, relieving Rahul of his duties. The decision was communicated to the Supreme Court on Wednesday, leading to the dismissal of a petition related to his appointment.

As per the government’s letter, “The Uttarakhand Government, after due consideration, relieved Shri Rahul from Director of Rajaji Tiger Reserve with immediate effect and appoints him as Chief Forest Conservator Monitoring, Evaluation, IT, and Modernisation, Dehradun.” This move came after the Supreme Court expressed concerns over Rahul’s appointment, noting his earlier removal from the Corbett Tiger Reserve due to allegations of illegal tree cutting.

The Forest Department acted on the Chief Minister’s directives in this matter. Rahul’s appointment as the Director of Rajaji National Park had been part of a series of IFS officer transfers. His new role will focus on monitoring and modernisation in Dehradun.

During the Supreme Court hearing, the government submitted the details of his removal, leading to the dismissal of the related petition. Uttarakhand Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal clarified that the decision to appoint Rahul as Rajaji Tiger Reserve’s Director was made jointly by him and the Chief Minister.