Accused of poisoning 30-odd trees on its premises to pave way for a new building, Andheri-based Karnataka Public School (KPS) now faces a non-cognisable offence registered by the Versova police following a report submitted by the assistant superintendent of gardens of K/west ward. However, NGO Shivtej Foundation, which had brought the matter to the fore in July, is of the opinion that the report doesn't mention details of the crime committed by killing trees and that an FIR should be registered against those guilty. Three months ago the NGO had first noticed that the trees were dying.

They reported the matter to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and MHADA on July 25. Speaking to mid-day, president of the NGO, Sumit Dhuri said, "Unauthorised cutting of trees is offensive and punishable under the Maharashtra (urban areas) Preservation of Trees Act (1975) and Section 21 of the Maharashtra Preservation of Trees Act & Maharashtra Felling of Trees (Regulation) Act, 1964. But instead of registering an FIR, the BMC has only filed an NC at Versova police station. This clearly shows how much the civic body and government care for trees. The government is promoting its mission to plant 33 crore trees this year but the reality is just the opposite."