Minister Surekha Expresses Grief Over Forest Officer Naveen’s Death

Forest and Environment Minister Konda Surekha expressed deep anguish over the death of Cheruvusingaram Forest Beat Officer Naveen, who was electrocuted after reportedly coming into contact with an electric trap allegedly set for hunting wildlife in Nakirepeta village of Burgampahad mandal, Bhadradri Kothagudem district. Naveen had gone to the area along with three other beat officers to apprehend suspected poachers. The minister spoke to District Forest Officer Siddhartha Vikram Singh and took details of the incident.

Surekha said using live electric wires to hunt wildlife is extremely dangerous and poses a serious threat to animals, forest personnel and local residents. She directed forest and police officials to conduct a comprehensive investigation and take strict legal action against those responsible. Expressing condolences to Naveen’s family, the minister directed PCCF Vinay Kumar to ensure ex-gratia compensation as per forest department rules and take steps to provide a government job to one member of the bereaved family.