Thiruvananthapuram: The government has frozen the decision to cut down 15 trees as part of strengthening the baby dam at Mullaperiyar. The decision taken only at the official level was highly politically controversial. Forest Minister AK Sasindran said there would be an inquiry and action against the officials.
NCP state president PC Chacko and others had come forward to criticize the state government for allowing Tamil Nadu to cut down trees under the Mullaperiyar Baby Dam. PC Chacko had said that he should clarify whether the order to cut was with the knowledge of the Chief Minister.
If such an order is issued without the knowledge of the Forest Minister, it is a serious breach of discipline. PC Chacko criticized that the decision should have been taken in consultation. Forest Minister AK Sasindran had said that the order was issued without his knowledge. PC Chacko said it was unacceptable for officials to make decisions without even the knowledge of the minister.
The state government then took the decision.
