In a significant ruling on Thursday, the Supreme Court of India declared that Zudpi Jungle lands in Maharashtra’s eastern Vidarbha region qualify as forests, aligning with its 1996 judgement that defined the term “forest”. The bench, led by Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justice Augustine George Masih, clarified that while the lands must be treated as forest, existing structures built before 12 December 1996 will be protected.
The term “zudpi”, derived from Marathi, refers to lands with bushy vegetation and has been long regarded as inferior and unoccupied. The court addressed disputes over the status of such land across Nagpur, Wardha, Bhandara, Gondia, Chandrapur, and Gadchiroli districts.
Recognising the use of these lands for public infrastructure—such as roads, schools, and government buildings—the court ruled that structures established prior to the 1996 judgement may remain, but future usage must comply with the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.
Any compensatory afforestation using Zudpi Jungle land will now require a certificate from the state’s chief secretary confirming the unavailability of non-forest land. In such cases, afforestation must cover double the area, per Ministry of Environment guidelines.
Encroachments on these lands must be removed within two years. The court directed Maharashtra to form a district-level task force comprising local revenue and forest officials, along with police, to oversee enforcement.
Additionally, the state must consult with the Centre on the future use of these lands and seek approval for any proposals involving post-1996 allocations. The Centre may only process such proposals after confirming punitive action against violating officials.
The judgement strikes a balance between environmental conservation and the protection of long-standing civic infrastructure.
Source: The Free Press Journal
