Calangute: The Calangute Constituency Forum (CCF) along with heritage activists, including historian PrajalSakhardande, on Monday held a protest meeting at Calangute to demand the replanting of a 200-year-old banyan tree which had been allegedly uprooted around 15 days ago by a builder.

CCF members said that despite complaints to the authorities, no efforts have been made to replant the uprooted tree. They also called for an inquiry into the permissions given by the deputy collector within hours to cut the tree on June 5.

“It’s the height of hypocrisy that the order to cut the tree was passed on June 5 – World Environment Day, when we’re talking of saving the environment and trees,” heritage activist PrajalSakhardande said.

He urged the state government to intervene to replant the uprooted tree. “With modern technology it is possible to replant and save the tree,” he said.

CCF president PremanandDivkar said if the authorities fail to restore the banyan tree within 15 days, they would be forced to take legal action.