GUWAHATI: A Forester-II of the Jorhat Forest Division has been placed under suspension after a purported phone conversation allegedly revealing misconduct went viral on social media.
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According to an office order issued by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Jorhat Division, Forester-II Montu Hazarika has been suspended with immediate effect pending departmental proceedings.
The action was reportedly taken on the instructions of Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah following the circulation of the alleged audio clip online.
The suspension order states that departmental proceedings have been initiated against Hazarika under the provisions of the Assam Services (Disciplinary and Appeal) Rules, 1964, on allegations of indulging in corrupt practices.
During the suspension period, Hazarika's headquarters has been fixed at the Mariani Range Headquarters, where he has been directed to report immediately to the Range Forest Officer. The order further states that he will be entitled to subsistence allowance as admissible under the relevant rules.