Opposition claims teak smugglers enjoying political patronage; minister promises probe

MUMBAI: (Mar 18) The Opposition on Wednesday claimed in the Maharashtra assembly that teak wood smugglers operating in Chandrapur district are enjoying political patronage.

Congress legislature party leader Vijay Wadettiwar alleged during Question Hour, the first hour of the House proceedings, that forest officials in the Brahmapuri area are being threatened and pressured by local leaders to spare smugglers from action.

Wadettiwar said a forest official recently seized two tractors loaded with teak wood, which is widely used in furniture for its durability. However, a local politician barged into the forest office, abused officials and forced them to release both the vehicles and the accused, he claimed.