Telangana Government puts GO 49 on hold after tribal concerns

Hyderabad: The Telangana government has decided to keep Government Order (GO) 49 in abeyance following concerns raised by Adivasi and tribal communities in the Kumurambheem–Asifabad district.

GO 49, issued by the Forest Department on June 30, proposed converting 1.49 lakh hectares across forest ranges in the district, including Asifabad, Kerameri, Rebbena, Tiryani, Kagaznagar, Sirpur, Karjelli, Bejjur, and Penchikalpet, into the Kumurambheem Tiger Conservation Reserve, as part of the extended Kawwal Tiger Corridor.

However, with over 330 villages falling within the proposed reserve, many tribal residents and local public representatives expressed serious concerns about possible displacement and restrictions on traditional forest rights.

In response, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy directed the Forest Department to suspend the implementation of the order. An official notification to that effect has been issued. The decision followed a detailed review conducted by Forest Minister Konda Surekha, Adilabad district in-charge Minister Jupally Krishna Rao, and Panchayat Raj Minister Seethakka, who submitted their findings to the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister has also sought a comprehensive report from the district collector to further assess the situation.

“We will not take any decision that harms the rights or livelihoods of Adivasis and tribal communities,” said Forest Minister Konda Surekha. “Their concerns have been heard, and action has been taken accordingly.” The state government has reiterated its commitment to protecting forest areas while ensuring the rights and welfare of indigenous communities are safeguarded.