A group of former civil servants and environmental experts has strongly objected to the Assam government’s decision to deploy personnel from the Assam Forest Protection Force (AFPF) for election duty, terming the move “illegal” and contrary to established norms.
In a joint statement, the signatories urged the state government to immediately withdraw its order, which reportedly directs around 1,600 AFPF personnel to assist law enforcement agencies during the upcoming Assembly elections. They warned that diverting forest personnel from their primary responsibilities could leave ecologically sensitive areas exposed to threats such as poaching, illegal logging, and encroachment.
The former officials argued that the deployment violates guidelines of the Election Commission of India (ECI), which discourage the use of forest staff in election-related duties. They also referred to a recent order of the Supreme Court that exempts forest officials and departmental resources from poll work, raising concerns over the legality of the state’s directive.
According to the critics, the Assam Forest Protection Force plays a crucial role in safeguarding wildlife and forest resources, particularly in vulnerable regions. Any large-scale redeployment, they said, could weaken conservation efforts at a critical time.
The state environment department had issued the order earlier this month, asking AFPF personnel to report for election duty ahead of polling and return after the process concludes.
The issue has sparked a broader debate on balancing administrative requirements during elections with environmental protection and legal compliance, as Assam prepares for the 2026 Assembly polls.
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