Guwahati, Nov. 5 -- The Assam government has defended the re-engagement of retired Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer M.K. Yadava as Special Chief Secretary (Forest), arguing before the Gauhati High Court that the challenge to his appointment is not maintainable and that the decision was taken in accordance with the state's administrative guidelines.

The Gauhati High Court is scheduled to hear the matter on Friday, November 6, 2026.

In an affidavit-in-opposition filed in PIL No. 57 of 2026, the Personnel Department has also strongly defended Yadava's decision to permit the diversion of forest land in Geleky Reserved Forest in Sivasagar and Innerline Reserved Forest in Hailakandi for the establishment of Assam Police commando battalion ...