Sheikh Junaid
The frontline staff of the Forest Department across Jammu and Kashmir have expressed deep sorrow and strong resentment over the tragic death of Forest Guard Mohd Iqbal Zargar, who lost his life after being struck by a stone slide near Gaadi Nallah in Doda district while performing official duties.
Employees described Zargar’s death as yet another grim reminder of the high-risk conditions under which Forest Guards operate daily, often without adequate safety gear, manpower, or logistical support. The Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory has witnessed a disturbing rise in fatalities among forest personnel in recent years, with guards routinely exposed to dangers ranging from forest fires to wild animal attacks and anti-encroachment drives in treacherous terrain.
Despite being a recognized Belt Force and a Territorial Department, the Forest Department’s frontline employees remain among the most neglected categories of government staff. They are denied risk and hardship allowances, not granted the additional 2½ days’ salary extended to other uniformed services, and their families often face delays in receiving ex-gratia relief or insurance benefits in case of death in line of duty.
Union representatives have renewed their call for immediate government intervention, urging authorities to implement fair policies that include risk allowance, resolution of long-pending pay anomalies with equivalent posts like VLWs, Patwaris, and Police Constables, timely financial relief for bereaved families, and compassionate appointments for next of kin.
“The death of Guard Zargar highlights the urgent need to treat Forest Guards as true frontline defenders of our natural wealth,” said one official, adding that the government must recognize their sacrifices through meaningful welfare measures.
Forests remain one of Jammu and Kashmir’s most vital assets and those who protect them, the officials said, deserve not neglect but protection, dignity, and recognition for their indispensable service.
