The punishment for cutting of trees in a forest is prescribed under various forest conservation laws in India, primarily the Indian Forest Act, 1927 and state-specific forest acts and rules.
As per the legal provisions, unauthorized cutting of trees in a forest area is considered a forest offence, and the punishment typically includes:
- Imprisonment up to two months, or
- A fine up to ₹500, or
- Both
This penalty may vary based on the severity of the offence and the specific forest area involved (e.g., protected forests, reserved forests). In certain aggravated cases or in protected areas, the punishment can be more stringent under state laws or the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.
Conclusion:
The standard punishment for cutting trees in a forest is two months imprisonment or a fine of ₹500, or both, depending on the nature and gravity of the offence.