Kerala Forest Amendment Bill simplifies sandalwood planting, cutting and selling

The Kerala government has introduced The Kerala Forest (Amendment) Bill which will legalise the planting, cutting and selling of sandalwood trees through the Forest Department. This move brings relief to landowners with sandalwood trees, as they will now be able to manage their trees without fear of legal consequences. Currently, cutting sandalwood trees on private land is allowed only if the trees pose a threat to people or property.

The amendment also aims to tighten regulations on forest-related crimes. Under the existing Kerala Forest Act (1961), Section 27 deals with offences like trespassing, illegal possession of forest produce, and damaging or cutting trees, grazing cattle, mining, and setting fire in forest areas. The punishment for these offences will remain the same – ranging from one to five years in prison. However, a fine between Rs 5,000 and Rs 25,000 will also apply. In addition to the fine, the court may order compensation as well.

Increased penalties for sandalwood theft

One of the key changes in the amendment is an increase in penalties for sandalwood theft. The current punishment for stealing sandalwood from forests includes imprisonment for up to seven years and a fine ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000. Under the new law, the fine will be raised to between Rs 25,000 and Rs 50,000. Other fines for forest-related offences will also see an increase.

Many forest-related crimes are currently prosecuted under the Wildlife Protection Act, and the new law aims to make these penalties more stringent.