Assam: Tree and Sapling Vandalism Sparks Outrage in Dhekiajuli

Dhekiajuli: In a shocking act of environmental vandalism, unidentified miscreants have destroyed saplings planted as part of the Gos Bihu (Tree Bihu) initiative by the Paschim Dhekiajuli Rongali Bihu Sanmilani in Dhekiajuli Town. The festival organizers who have been running a sustained tree plantation drive to combat deforestation and rising temperatures lodged an official complaint at the Dhekiajuli Police Station on Monday demanding strict action against the culprits.

Despite protective fencing, several planted trees were either uprooted, broken, or allegedly poisoned using chemicals. The vandalism has not only sparked outrage among environmentalists but also among cultural bodies who viewed it as an attack on Assamese traditions.

“We have been promoting tree plantation through Gos Bihu to address the worsening climate crisis in the entire world.  Some people are deliberately trying to disrupt this noble cause,” said Girish Das, President of the Paschim Dhekiajuli Rongali Bihu Sanmilani.

The initiative, known as Shubho Dinot Brikkyaropon Asani (Tree Plantation Initiative on Auspicious Days), has been widely appreciated for its role in increasing green cover and raising awareness about environmental sustainability. The destruction of these saplings has been seen as an affront to the cultural and ecological vision behind the movement.

The 70th Dhekiajuli Central Rongali Bihu Sanmilani, the largest Bihu organizing body in the Dhekiajuli Co-District, has extended its full support to the affected organization. Its newly elected President Kajal Bora along with several other prominent officials were present during the filing of the FIR.

Local authorities have assured a thorough investigation into the matter. Officer-in-Charge Deepak Das has promised swift action stating that those responsible will face legal consequences.

Environmental activists and cultural leaders across Assam have condemned the incident calling for stronger measures to protect afforestation efforts. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in preserving green initiatives and cultural traditions in the face of rising threats.

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