Court probes alleged conspiracy behind massive tree cutting during COVID lockdown

In a fresh round of hearings, the Jharkhand High Court pressed the state for a clear explanation of why the CID’s investigation seems limited to Palamu’s Panki region while the petition lists multiple districts. The bench questioned whether a broader conspiracy is being overlooked.

Counsel for the petitioner asserted that after the case surfaced, the government handed the matter to the CID, yet the agency’s work has been “excruciatingly slow.” He further alleged attempts to protect individuals implicated in the illegal felling.

The court ordered a detailed reply on the alleged “larger conspiracy” and set the next date for a two‑week later hearing, stressing the need for swift justice.