The Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Balaghat, Neha Shrivastava, has accused Congress MLA Anubha Munjare of demanding a bribe of Rs 2-3 lakh and issuing threats. The Forest Department has formed a two-member committee to investigate the matter.
Balaghat: In the Balaghat district of Madhya Pradesh, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Neha Shrivastava, has leveled serious allegations against Congress MLA Anubha Munjare, stating that the MLA asked her to pay a bribe of Rs 2 to 3 lakh. The DFO has also submitted a written complaint to the Forest Department in this regard.
This accusation has created a stir in political and administrative circles. The DFO claims that upon refusal, the MLA threatened her and spoke of getting her transferred out of the district. A two-member committee has been formed to investigate the matter.
Allegations of Bribery and Threats
In a letter written to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), the DFO stated that on August 16, the MLA called her to the Forest Rest House and demanded a bribe. She further stated that upon refusal, the MLA used abusive language and threatened to jeopardize her job.
The DFO also stated in the letter that the MLA made insulting remarks against all Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers in Balaghat. She alleged that the MLA was obstructing government work and attempting to put pressure on employees.
MLA Denies Allegations
Congress MLA Anubha Munjare has completely refuted the DFO's allegations. She claims that this is a conspiracy stemming from the "petty mindset" and a defensive tactic by the DFO and her husband, Adhar Gupta.
Munjare claims that the controversy has been manufactured to divert attention from the case of the death of a tigress in Sonewani, Lalbarra. She has warned that she will file a defamation suit against the baseless allegations and may resort to a hunger strike if necessary.
Two-Member Committee Formed for Investigation
The government has formed a two-member committee to conduct a swift investigation into the matter. The committee comprises Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Kamlika Mohanta (batch of 1997) and Conservator of Forests Anjana Suchita Tirkey (batch of 2010).
The committee has been directed to submit its investigation report within two weeks. This report will clarify whether the DFO's allegations are true or if it is a case of defamation by the MLA.
Tension Between Forest Department and Political Leadership
This matter is not limited to the bribery allegations. It also reflects underlying tensions between the Forest Department and local political leadership, the controversy surrounding the tigress's death, and a power struggle within the administration.
Balaghat, renowned for its forest wealth and tigers, has now become the center of this political battle. The statements made by both the official and the MLA have further complicated the situation.
