JUDGMENT

1. We have considered the suggestions given by learned Solicitor General and learned Amicus Curiae regarding the constitution of the Central Empowered Committee. The composition of CEC shall be as follows:

(1) Shri P.B. Jayakrishnan, Chairman

(2) Shri P.R. Mohanty, Director General of Forests, MoEF

(3) Shri M.K. Jiwrajka, Member Secretary

(4) Shri S.K. Patnaik

(5) Dr. M.K. Mathew

(6) Shri Mahendar Vyas

(7) Shri Sanjeev Chaddha (Deputy Secretary)

2. Shri M.K. Jiwrajka is on deputation as of today as he belongs to the cadre of the Forest Officials in the State of Maharashtra which deputation is ordered to be continued till 31.3.2009.

3. Term of office of CEC would be three years or until further orders, whichever is earlier.