‘Green Diamond’ under threat: Rampant illegal Kendu leaf smuggling in Bolangir, officials' involvement suspected

Allegations of large-scale illegal smuggling of Kendu leaves have surfaced in Bolangir district, raising serious concerns about the possible involvement of government officials in the illicit trade. 

Reports suggest that hundreds of tons of Kendu leaves are being transported unlawfully, bypassing the legal channels and regulatory protocols.

Kendu leaves, often referred to as the ‘green diamond’ because of their economic importance, are a crucial source of livelihood for forest-dependent communities. 

The trade of these leaves also constitutes a significant source of revenue for the Odisha government. However, sources indicate that illegal operations are benefiting a large network of middlemen and traders, depriving local collectors of their rightful earnings.

According to eyewitness accounts, villagers recently intercepted a vehicle transporting 40 sacks containing 480 bundles of Kendu leaves from a ‘fadi’ in Titlagarh’s Nuapali to the Deogaon range. 

Legal transport of Kendu leaves requires a transit pass, batch numbers, and third-party signatures. Of the 40 sacks seized, 26 were reportedly missing these mandatory documents, suggesting serious procedural violations.

Multiple complaints have been lodged over the past few weeks, highlighting the organized nature of the smuggling racket. Activists and local residents have demanded a strict investigation into the alleged involvement of officials.

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District administration officials could not be reached for comments on the matter. Authorities are yet to confirm the scale of the racket or take further action. The incident has reignited calls for stricter monitoring of forest produce transport in Odisha.