Rishikesh protests erupt over Supreme Court-ordered forest land survey
On Monday, Rishikesh locals—many worried about losing their homes—blocked highways and railway tracks to protest a Supreme Court-ordered survey of 2,866 acres of forest land near Mansa Devi Railway Crossing.
Things got tense, with reports of stone-pelting at police and Forest Department officials.
What's behind the unrest and what happens next?
The land in question has a complicated history: leased out in 1950, but under private occupation with claims of illegal commercial use and sub-letting.
The Supreme Court stepped in after seeing little action from state authorities—it's now banned new construction or third-party deals on the disputed area and ordered an official investigation.
Authorities have until January 5, 2026 to report back.
SSP Ajay Singh led efforts to restore calm and traffic after the protests.