Hatiya (Noakhali) Correspondent

The court has ordered a suo motu investigation into the allegations of encroachment of government khas land, destruction of reserved forest land, construction of illegal structures and damage to wildlife habitat in the Char Ataur area of Hatia upazila of Noakhali, taking into account information published in various news and social media. At the same time, the concerned government agencies have been directed to provide necessary assistance in the investigation.

The order was issued recently by Judicial Magistrate Abdul Quader of Hatia Senior Judicial Magistrate Court. The court has directed the submission of the investigation report by September 2, 2026.

The court's observation said that the allegations made about Char Ataur have created public concern. If the allegations are proven true, it will be considered as encroachment of government property, destruction of reserved forest land and a serious threat to the environment and biodiversity. The court opined that an impartial investigation is necessary as the matter is related to public interest.

The order mentioned that after several people were killed in a clash over dominance in the Char Jagla area in 2025, allegations of new attempts to encroach on the char area have increased concerns among the locals. In this context, the officer-in-charge of Hatia Police Station has been ordered to investigate and submit a report to the court under Section 190(1)(c) of the Code of Criminal Procedure.

The Hatia Upazila Executive Officer (UNO), Hatia Circle Assistant Superintendent of Police, concerned officers of the Bangladesh Navy, officers in charge of the Coastal Forest Department, and Upazila Ansar and VDP officers have been ordered to provide necessary assistance to cooperate in the investigation.

The court ordered the investigation report to include detailed information on the nature of land ownership in Char Ataur, allegations of encroachment of government khas land, construction of illegal structures, cutting or filling of soil, clearing of reserved forest land, cutting down trees, and damage to the habitat of wildlife including deer or illegal hunting and trafficking.

In addition, the order also mentions that if the allegations are found to be true, necessary action will be taken under the Land Crimes Prevention and Remedies Act, 2023, the Amended Forest Act, 1927 and other existing laws. The investigation officer has been asked to inspect the scene, collect evidence, take statements from the people concerned and submit a complete investigation report to the court based on the evidence.

Hatia Police Station OC Mohammad Kabir Hossain said that the investigation process has started after receiving the court's instructions. After collecting information and evidence through coordination with the concerned departments, an impartial investigation report will be submitted to the court within the stipulated time.

Meanwhile, local residents are viewing the court's initiative as positive. They hope that through a fair investigation, the real encroachers will be identified and effective measures will be taken to protect government khas land, reserved forest lands and grazing areas, and that the relevant authorities will play a more active role in environmental protection.