Ranchi, Sept. 30 -- The BJP in Jharkhand has welcomed the Supreme Court directive to begin the process of declaring Saranda forest a sanctuary, describing the move as both historic and a damning indictment of the Hemant Soren-led government for its failure to protect the state's environment and forests.
State BJP spokesperson Pratul Shahdeo told the media that Saranda, Asia's largest sal forest spread over 82,000 hectares, was once known worldwide for its lush greenery, rich biodiversity, and ecological balance. However, during the Hemant Soren government's tenure, he alleged, unchecked activities of the iron ore mafia caused unprecedented ecological destruction.
"Mining mafias plundered Saranda under the patronage of the Hemant governmen...