Criminals cut down betel plants at Khasi village

Unidentified criminals, numbering 70-80, cut over six hundred betel plants at Sahebtila punjee (village) in Kormodha union under Kulaura upazila of Moulvibazar district on Sunday night.

Sahebtila punjee people told this correspondent over phone that the criminals cut betel plants (10 to 15 feet in height).

Jenin Snal, head of Sahebtila punjee, said locals demanded immediate arrest and exemplary punishment of the persons involved in such heinous act. However, he could not tell the exact reason behind cutting down of the plants.

Father Joseph Gomes, central committee member of BAPA, confirmed the matter to The Daily Star. He added that the betel leaf gardens were the only source of income of the Khasi people. The cutting is also harmful for the environment, he added.

Despite several attempts, this correspondent could not contact Kulaura Forest Officer Boloram Roy as his cellophane remained switched off.

Contacted, Motiar Rahman, office-in-charge of Kulaura Police Station, said they have not heard about the matter yet. "If the victims inform us we will investigate the matter and take action against the culprits," he added.