Assam CM Vows to Reclaim 5 Lakh Hectares of Encroached Land
Synopsis
In a bold statement, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma promises to intensify eviction drives to recover 5 lakh hectares of land if the BJP is re-elected. The Chief Minister's remarks come amidst ongoing political tensions regarding land rights and encroachment issues.
Key Takeaways
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma plans to reclaim encroached land.
Targeting 5 lakh hectares if BJP returns to power.
Current efforts have cleared 1.5 lakh hectares of land.
Eviction drives focused on regions like Darrang and Nagaon .
Political controversy surrounds the humanitarian impact of these measures.
Guwahati, March 26 (NationPress) Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared on Thursday that his administration plans to escalate eviction operations to recover up to 5 lakh hectares of illegally occupied land if the BJP is re-elected in the forthcoming Assembly elections.
While campaigning for BJP candidate Nilima Devi in Mangaldoi, Sarma sharply criticized opposition figures, asserting that, “whether it's Badruddin Ajmal or Gaurav Gogoi, they are unable to face the Assamese populace.”
Addressing the critical issue of land encroachment, the Chief Minister warned of tougher measures ahead.
“We have successfully reclaimed nearly 1.5 lakh hectares of encroached territory. Should we regain power, our goal is to recover 5 lakh hectares. Those attempting illegal land occupation will encounter even stricter consequences,” he stated.
Sarma noted that the BJP-led government has initiated numerous eviction drives statewide over recent years, focusing on alleged encroachments on government properties, forested areas, and protected regions.
These eviction efforts, particularly in regions like Darrang, Nagaon, and parts of Upper Assam, have been framed by the government as attempts to reclaim land for indigenous communities and promote development.
The Chief Minister has consistently asserted that these actions are vital for protecting the land rights of the Assamese people.
Nonetheless, these drives have ignited political debate, with opposition parties condemning the government's approach over concerns about humanitarian issues and family displacements.
Reaffirming the BJP's stance, Sarma stated that these governmental actions seek to shield the state's interests and identity.
“No prior administration could undertake such decisive actions. We have acted, and we will persist in our actions,” he emphasized.
The Chief Minister also urged voters to support the BJP candidate in Mangaldoi, expressing optimism that the party would achieve a strong electoral mandate.
The BJP is aiming for re-election in Assam, relying on its governance track record and firm position on critical issues such as land, identity, and security.
Point of View
The statements made by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlight a significant political strategy aimed at addressing land encroachment issues while appealing to the electorate's concerns about identity and governance. This approach, however, is met with opposition criticism regarding its humanitarian implications.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the government's plan regarding encroached land in Assam?
The Assam government plans to intensify eviction drives to recover up to 5 lakh hectares of encroached land if the BJP is re-elected.
How much land has already been cleared of encroachments?
The government has successfully cleared nearly 1.5 lakh hectares of encroached land so far.
What regions have been targeted for eviction drives?
Eviction drives have particularly targeted areas such as Darrang, Nagaon, and parts of Upper Assam.
What are the criticisms against the eviction drives?
Opposition parties have criticized the eviction drives for alleged humanitarian concerns and the displacement of families.
What is the BJP's stance on the eviction measures?
The BJP maintains that these measures are necessary to protect the interests and identity of the Assamese people.
