Has the Assam Government Initiated a Major Eviction Drive to Remove Encroachments on 11,000 Bighas of Land?
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Synopsis
In a bold move, the Assam government has initiated a large-scale eviction drive in Golaghat, targeting encroachments on 11,000 bighas of land. With heavy machinery and a significant police presence, nearly 2,000 families are facing eviction. This operation comes amidst rising tensions and concerns over illegal immigration.
Key Takeaways
- Eviction drive initiated in Assam's Golaghat district.
- Targeting 11,000 bighas of encroached land.
- Approximately 2,000 families facing eviction.
- Significant police and machinery presence for enforcement.
- Concerns over the implications for displaced communities.
Guwahati, July 29 (NationPress) The administration in Assam's Golaghat district has commenced a significant eviction drive on Tuesday to reclaim at least 11,000 bighas of encroached land, as confirmed by officials.
Substantial security measures have been established in the Rengma Reserve Forest at Uriamghat, which borders Nagaland, where the eviction operations are being executed by the Golaghat district administration.
During this operation, nearly 2,000 families accused of encroaching upon forest land in the Rengma Reserve Forest, situated under the Sarupathar sub-division in the Golaghat district, are anticipated to vacate the forest area.
Reportedly, the encroached land has been transformed into betel nut plantations, allegedly associated with a broader “betel mafia” network, prompting strict administrative measures following comprehensive land surveys across 30 villages in the vicinity.
Authorities have mobilized a robust force of approximately 700 to 800 personnel from the Assam Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the Forest Department.
Heavy machinery, including bulldozers and excavators, has also been deployed for the eviction. Many individuals facing eviction belong to the Bengali-speaking Muslim community, often labeled as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. Reports indicate that a considerable number have fled the region in fear, seeking refuge in other areas of Assam.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma mentioned that 70 percent of the identified encroachers had voluntarily vacated the land.
He reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to reclaiming forest and government land.
According to official estimates, over the past four years, 1.29 lakh bighas (around 42,500 acres) have been cleared of encroachments, yet approximately 29 lakh bighas (more than 9.5 lakh acres) still remain under illegal occupation across the state.
The state government has asserted that many of the encroachers hail from Muslim-majority districts within Assam, such as Nagaon, Morigaon, Sonitpur, Cachar, Dhubri, Barpeta, and Hojai, in addition to neighboring states like West Bengal and Bihar.
With rising tensions, the Nagaland government has issued an advisory urging its border districts to remain vigilant and prevent any spillover of displaced families from Assam into its jurisdiction during the eviction process.
Point of View
The ongoing eviction drive in Assam reflects a crucial issue surrounding land rights and illegal encroachments. While the government aims to reclaim land for ecological and administrative integrity, it is essential to balance enforcement with compassion for affected families. The situation calls for a nuanced understanding of the socio-political dynamics at play.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the eviction drive in Assam?
The primary objective of the eviction drive is to reclaim approximately 11,000 bighas of encroached land in Golaghat district, ensuring the protection of forest areas and government property.
Who are the main stakeholders involved in this eviction process?
The main stakeholders include the Assam state administration, the Golaghat district administration, law enforcement agencies such as the Assam Police and CRPF, and the families facing eviction.
What measures are being taken to ensure the eviction is carried out safely?
Authorities have deployed a significant police presence, including around 700 to 800 personnel, and mobilized heavy machinery to facilitate the eviction process safely.
How has the local community reacted to the eviction drive?
Reports indicate that many families are fleeing the area in fear, seeking refuge elsewhere, particularly among the Bengali-speaking Muslim community, who feel targeted by the eviction efforts.
What implications does this eviction drive have for future land policies in Assam?
This drive may set a precedent for future land policies in Assam, emphasizing the government's commitment to reclaiming encroached lands while also raising questions about the treatment of displaced families.
