Keonjhar, Mar 11: The Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Keonjhar has taken strict disciplinary action against three forest officials, suspending them for negligence and misconduct.

The officials include two foresters-Pramod Behera and Biswaranjan Mishra of Ghatagaon-and forest guard Hrudananda Mohanty of Patna.

According to the suspension order, the officials were found absent from duty without prior permission, which amounted to administrative indiscipline. More seriously, they were accused of failing to carry out their responsibilities in controlling forest fires, a critical duty during the dry season when the risk of wildfires is high.

The DFO emphasised that such negligence not only disrupts forest management but also endangers biodiversity, wildlife, and local communities dependent on forest resources. Forest fires have been a recurring challenge in Keonjhar district, and the administration has been urging staff to remain vigilant and proactive in fire prevention measures.

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The suspension serves as a warning to other officials that dereliction of duty will not be tolerated, especially when it concerns safeguarding forests and wildlife. The DFO has indicated that further inquiries will be conducted, and additional measures may follow depending on the findings.