Madikeri: The Chief Minister’s Legal Advisor and Virajpet MLA, A.S. Ponnanna, has advised the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests to suspend the implementation of Forest Department’s order regarding documentation of trees on private lands.

Following the Lok Sabha elections, a comprehensive meeting will convene with Forest Department Secretaries to address this issue. Ponnanna has urged the Department to refrain from taking any action until further decisions are made, ensuring farmers face no obstacles.

Officials have been instructed not to enter coffee plantations for tree documentation purposes. Ponnanna reiterated his dedication to safeguarding the rights of farmers and the interests of the State Government.

Reflecting on his past efforts, both personal and legal, advocating for tree rights, Ponnanna emphasised the Government’s and his own commitment to preserving forest resources and the environment. Despite this commitment, certain timber merchants have been causing damage to natural resources in the district. Ponnanna stated, “Such timber merchants have no place in the district.”