New Delhi, May 15 -- The Supreme Court on Thursday warned the Telangana government of stern action if no decision is taken on the restoration of Kancha Gachibowli forest in the state.

A bench of the Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai, and Justice Augustine George Masih told the state authorities to either restore the lost forest cover or face consequences.

Justice Gavai said, "It is up to the state whether it wants to restore the forest or not. The entire issue was that the benefit of a long weekend was taken and thousands of trees were felled. Anyways, state has to decide whether it restores the forest or officers would be sent to jail," remarked CJI.

It has now posted the matter for hearing on July 23.

Earlier, it had directed the Wil...