Forest Department Officials Harass Residents in Vakarai, Batticaloa

08-Jul-2025

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Forest Department officials visiting Thekkanchenai village in Vakarai, Batticaloa, are reportedly threatening residents to vacate the area immediately. Human rights activist S. Sivayoganathan said villagers claimed they had been living there for over 70 years.

After meeting them, he told the media: “No state official has visited or provided assistance. Officials told them their records are in Palchenai and Kathiraveli and that there is no need to verify their situation here.”

“Occasionally, Forest Department staff arrive and threaten eviction, claiming the land belongs to the Department. When residents go into the forest to collect honey, Special Task Force personnel allegedly assault them and warn them not to return, severely affecting their livelihoods.”

“They engage in fishing, seasonal farming, and collecting forest produce to survive amid severe economic hardship,” they said.

“No government has provided them with basic necessities. During last December’s floods, their village was surrounded by water, and only ACT organization delivered dry rations by boat.”

“There are 55 families here and about 100 more in nearby villages such as Navatkulam and Kalladi Sampakkalappu. These people lack drinking water, sanitation, irrigation, roads, medical care, and electricity. Meanwhile, the Forest and Wildlife Departments frequently harass them and sometimes file cases, forcing them to pay heavy fines.”

“On February 25, Forest Department officers allegedly burned down 13 huts in Kallaripuchchenai and took stored rice, pulses, peanuts, and honey.”

“They have complained to Vakarai Police but no action was taken,” civil society representatives said.

“The matter has been brought to the attention of MPs, village officers, and NGOs,” the residents stated.