Agartala, May 16, 2024, TRIPURATIMES Desk
Agartala May 16: Although it is a complex scenario as many families have created a settlement on government land that is legally protected, the solution to this lies in the delicate balance between upholding law and humanitarian approach, said chief minister Dr Manik Saha.
Addressing reporters at the sidelines of a blood donation camp on Thursday, the chief minister made the statement regarding the much hyped issue of “homeless families who have taken refuge in Pekucherra forests under Panisagar subdivision”.
Reportedly, despite clear violation of forest laws, around 83 families have sought refuge from various areas like Dasda, Laljhuri, Subhashnagar, Barahaldi among others in Pekucherra forest area.
While the families claim to have built temporary shelters in the forest land to protect their lives, the Forest Department officials have tried various strategies to resolve this issue, but failed so far.
On being questioned about this, the chief minister said, “The administration including the forest department are working for a compassionate resolution. Keeping the laws intact, the government will find a way in favor of the families while maintaining a humanitarian approach towards them”.
Meanwhile, speaking about the day’s blood donation camp, the chief minister urged everyone to maintain a balance in donating and supplying blood, while also appealing for everyone's participation in blood donation camps.
"Many people have come forward to donate blood. During the 2023 Assembly polls, there was also a blood crisis, and people came forward to help at that time as well. If we voluntarily donate blood, then there will be no crisis. Without blood, no one can survive. It is a gift from God, and one can donate it to others. We have excess blood in our bodies. If we do not donate blood in time, it dies inside our bodies. There is no problem in donating blood," said Dr. Saha.
Around 125 donors participated in the day’s camp organized at the premises of the ward office of AMC Ward No-39, AD Nagar.