The ranger of Kalagarh range in Corbett national park was manhandled by policemen on Thursday. Though officials are stating that the altercation was a result of past differences, wildlife activists have alleged that the altercation was a result of political influence

and aimed at pressurising the forest authorities since the construction of road in Kalagarh dam colony was stopped by the Corbett authorities.

Some constructions had been demolished by the authorities in the Kalagarh dam colony in the past and the ranger was transporting material from this site to the range office when he was accosted by policemen from the Kalagarh Chowki.

The policemen first had a verbal argument with the ranger and then manhandled him. According to the Corbett deputy director Saket Badola, the policemen manhandled the Kalagarh ranger.

“Manhandling the ranger was wrong. The two sides should have resolved their differences through talk in stead of turning violent. Following the incident, the superintendent of police was telephoned and he sent the CO to Kalagarh. The issue was discussed between the CO and Kalagarh sub divisional officer and the future course of action to be taken in the case is likely to be finalised on Friday,” he said.

It will be recalled that in violation of High Court orders, the Pubic Works Department had started road construction in the Kalagarh dam colony but this was stopped by forest authorities.

As the matter is being inquired into, wildlife activists allege that a local politician is getting this work done for political gains.

Some residents of the colony and those supporting the politician are dissatisfied with the road construction being stopped.