Guwahati, Dec 30: Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Gaurav Gogoi on Monday condemned the arson attack at Molai Kathoni, the forest developed by environmentalist Jadav Payeng and his daughter Munmuni Payeng, calling for a thorough investigation into the incident.

In a statement, Gogoi termed the fire a serious and condemnable act and questioned how such an incident could occur at an ecologically sensitive site. He said the incident should not be treated as an ordinary crime and raised concerns over reported links to illegal sand mining activities in the area.

Referring to allegations of a sand mafia nexus, Gogoi said there were reports that the Forest Department had approved sand mining in nearby riverine areas despite opposition from Payeng. He demanded an immediate review of such approvals and sought cancellation of licences, citing potential environmental risks.

Gogoi also urged the government to conduct a detailed inquiry, identify those responsible, ensure arrests, and take action to curb illegal sand mining operations.

Meanwhile, NSUI state president Kaushik Kashyap met Jadav Payeng and said there were concerns over threats to his life. In a press statement, Kashyap alleged that the forest was set on fire during Payeng’s absence and said the incident posed a risk to the ecological balance of the region.

Kashyap stated that the student community stood in support of Payeng and called on the government to ensure his security and the protection of the forest.