Madikeri: The State Government, citing dereliction of duty has ordered suspension of Deputy Conservator of Forest (DCF)  M.L. Manjunath of Madikeri Division with immediate effect yesterday (June 14).

The suspension comes in wake of DCF Manjunath reportedly issuing permission for unauthorised felling of 800 trees in K. Nidugani Gram Panchayat of the district.

According to the order issued by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), the suspension order follows directions from the Government. Virajpet DCF Maria Christu Raj has been given additional charge of the Madikeri Division.

Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy had recently expressed anguish over media reports on the axing of more than 800 trees in K. Nidugane Gram Panchayat limits for the construction of a resort. The CM not only issued directions to immediately halt the axing of trees, but also sought a detailed report from the Forest Department on the matter.

As per rules, the DCF can issue permission for cutting of only three trees per acre, but 800 trees were cut illegally in the said Gram Panchayat.