A Maharashtra court has finally acquitted a housing society and its office bearer in a long-pending case related to alleged illegal tree felling in 2020. The verdict comes as a relief to the residents after years of legal scrutiny and administrative hassles.
🏢 Housing Society Cleared of Charges
The Thane court ruled that the society was not directly responsible for cutting or damaging trees within its premises. This judgment ended a legal battle that began after civic authorities accused the society of violating environmental rules.
Highlight: The court’s decision reinforces the principle that “no evidence, no penalty” applies in such cases. ✅
📄 Complaint Filed by Civic Authorities
The case originated when the Tree Authority of Thane Municipal Corporation alleged that several trees were cut down without official permission. Authorities claimed the society had violated municipal and environmental regulations.
Highlight: Alleged tree felling included species such as rain trees, neem, mango, and banyan. 🌿
❌ Prosecution Could Not Prove Responsibility
The court observed that the prosecution failed to establish direct responsibility of the housing society. There was ambiguity over whether the society, its contractor, or any other party had carried out the activity.
Highlight: Legal accountability requires clear evidence linking the accused to the act. ⚖️
🗂️ Gaps in Evidence & Documentation
Investigators could not provide proper inspection reports, photographs, or records showing the felled trees. Missing or incomplete documentation significantly weakened the case.
Highlight: Proper documentation is crucial for civic authorities to enforce environmental laws effectively. 📝
👥 Weak Witness Statements
Key witnesses admitted during the trial that they had not personally visited the site. Their testimonies were largely based on secondary reports and documents, which the court found insufficient.
Highlight: Courts give less weight to statements that are second-hand or unverified. 🤔
⚠️ Procedural Lapses
The court highlighted inconsistencies in notices, inspection dates, and identification of responsible parties. Such procedural lapses added to the doubt and led to the acquittal.
Highlight: Civic authorities must follow strict procedures before penalizing housing societies. 📋
🌳 After Four Years, Court Acquits Housing Society in Alleged Illegal Tree-Felling Case ⚖️