Dehradun, June 19 -- The Khalanga forest dispute has taken a contentious turn as conflicting claims by various authorities have created widespread confusion among environmentalists, activists, and local residents. While the Forest Department has described the disputed 40-bigha site near the historic Nalapani battlefield as "private forest land", this claim has been strongly challenged by the local communities and conservationists, who insist the area is part of a protected Sal Forest. These contradictory assertions have intensified public concern over the intent of the authorities, whether to uphold the sanctity of forest conservation or to quietly legitimise encroachment in favour of a private builder.

The matter drew further scrutiny a...