Kultoora Villagers Decry Unauthorized Cutting of Green Apple & Pear Trees, Seek Justice

Langate (Handwara): Residents of Kultoora village in Langate, including members of the local Auqaf Committee and the village lumberdar, staged a peaceful protest on Tuesday against the Horticulture Department over the alleged unauthorized felling of green apple and pear trees in the Kultoora Horticulture Nursery.

According to the locals, the cutting of these “mother trees,” which hold significant value for the horticultural ecosystem, was carried out without any prior information to the community. They expressed shock when they witnessed a wood contractor from Ganderbal using machinery to cut and collect the trees within the nursery premises.

The locals allege that the contractor had procured the bid for this operation for a sum of ₹20,000, but neither the Auqaf Committee nor the elected lumberdar were informed about the process. Residents, including senior citizens and Deputy Chairman of the Auqaf Committee, Manzoor Ahmad Lone, expressed their dissatisfaction over the lack of transparency.

“It is deeply concerning that over the last 20 years, numerous government schemes have been inaugurated here, yet no details of their revenue or outcomes have ever been shared with us,” said Abdul Majeed Malla, a senior resident. The locals accused the department of undermining the economy of the region and demanded accountability for what they called a “money-gain conspiracy.”

The villagers have appealed to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, and Director Horticulture Zahoor Ahmad to investigate the matter thoroughly and take strict action against those responsible.

In response, Director Horticulture Zahoor Ahmad assured action if the allegations are found to be true. “The department carried out the felling as per official procedures. A public notice was also published in newspapers regarding the operation,” he said. Furthermore, he announced plans to establish a walnut nursery in the same area, citing its suitability as per the department’s survey. “This initiative aims to transform the land into a valuable horticulture asset,” he added.

The situation continues to stir unrest among the residents, who have vowed to ensure accountability and justice for what they believe is a blatant disregard for their community’s rights and livelihood. (Contributed By Dr. Abdul Qayoom)