Legal Action Initiated After Budgam Pastures Damaged

New Delhi, October 10, 2025: A formal police complaint, or First Information Report (FIR), has been officially registered by authorities in Budgam district, Central Kashmir, following the circulation of a viral video. The video showed a group of social media influencers driving vehicles across ecologically fragile green pastures near the Breinwar forests. Widespread public criticism and outrage were sparked by the footage, which clearly documented the vehicles moving off designated paths and leaving visible tire marks, thereby damaging the sensitive meadow ecosystem.

Violation of Forest Regulations

The FIR was lodged under the relevant sections of the Indian Forest Act (IFA) following a formal complaint being submitted by the Forest Department. The area where the incident occurred is classified as a protected forest belt, meaning the movement of vehicles without official permission is strictly prohibited. This legal action is being taken as a serious response to the environmental damage caused by the reckless activity of the individuals involved.

The Deputy Commissioner of Budgam, Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, confirmed that legal proceedings have been initiated against the perpetrators. It was emphasised that the matter was being taken seriously and that an investigation was underway to identify all persons who participated in the unlawful activity.

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Call for Environmental Protection and Awareness

The Forest Department has been directed to ensure that similar violations are not repeated in the future. Furthermore, awareness drives will be conducted to educate both locals and tourists about the environmental importance and ecological sensitivity of these meadows. The public is being warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found engaging in illegal off-roading or causing damage to forest and protected areas.

Officials from the Forest Department are working closely with the police to determine the total extent of damage caused to the meadowland and to identify all vehicles that were involved in the incident. This prompt legal response is considered necessary to deter future acts of environmental vandalism and is hoped will send a strong message regarding the protection of Kashmir’s natural resources.