Is Assam's Forest Area Under Encroachment Almost Double Delhi's Size?
Synopsis
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has revealed that nearly 2,676 square km of forest land is currently under encroachment in the state, an area almost twice the size of Delhi. This alarming situation has been linked to the policies of past Congress governments, highlighting ongoing eviction drives and environmental concerns.
Key Takeaways
2,676 sq km of forest land under encroachment in Assam.
Area nearly double that of Delhi .
Blame placed on previous Congress governments .
Government implementing eviction drives and conservation measures.
Concerns raised over impacts on marginalized communities .
Guwahati, Feb 12 (NationPress) Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asserted on Thursday that approximately 2,676 square kilometers of forest territory, nearly double the area of Delhi, is under illegal encroachment in the state. He blamed this situation on the policies of past Congress administrations.
In a post on the social media platform X, the Chief Minister highlighted these statistics to provide context regarding the scale of the issue faced by the current government.
“A staggering 2,676 sq km of forest land is under encroachment—almost twice the size of Delhi. BJP4Assam is dedicated to addressing this,” Sarma stated.
This announcement coincides with ongoing eviction drives and forest conservation initiatives being implemented by the Assam government in various districts.
Officials noted that the state government has ramped up efforts to recover encroached forest land as part of a larger strategy aimed at preserving wildlife habitats, ensuring ecological balance, and fostering sustainable development.
Leading figures from the BJP have claimed that rampant encroachment during previous Congress leadership resulted in significant degradation of protected forests and wildlife corridors. The current administration insists that this problem poses serious risks to biodiversity, management of human-animal interactions, and the state's long-term environmental safety.
Government representatives mentioned that comprehensive surveys and satellite imaging are being utilized to evaluate the scope of encroachment and determine priority areas for intervention. The land reclaimed will be restored through afforestation initiatives and enhanced forest management techniques.
However, the opposition has criticized these eviction efforts, stating that they disproportionately impact marginalized communities. The state government has rebutted these claims, asserting that all actions are executed in compliance with the law and due process.
Political analysts interpret Sarma’s statements as part of the BJP's strategy to emphasize its governance narrative in the lead-up to upcoming elections, demonstrating a strong commitment to land protection and environmental stewardship while attributing the crisis to prior administrations.
As forest conservation becomes a pivotal policy focus, the Assam government has reaffirmed its resolve to reclaim encroached land and protect natural resources, even as discussions around evictions and rehabilitation persist.
Point of View
This issue brings to light the critical balance between development and environmental conservation. The encroachment of forest land is a pressing concern that warrants a careful examination of both government policies and the socio-economic implications for affected communities. It is essential for the government to ensure that any measures taken for reclamation are just and equitable.
NationPress
4 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the size of the encroached forest land in Assam?
The encroached forest land in Assam is approximately 2,676 square kilometers, which is almost double the size of Delhi.
Who does the Chief Minister blame for the encroachment?
The Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, attributes the encroachment to the policies of previous Congress governments.
What measures is the Assam government taking to address this issue?
The Assam government is undertaking eviction drives and implementing forest protection measures to reclaim encroached land and conserve wildlife habitats.
What are the criticisms surrounding the eviction drives?
Critics argue that the eviction drives disproportionately affect marginalized communities, although the government insists all actions are lawful.
How is the government assessing the encroachment?
The government is using detailed surveys and satellite mapping to evaluate the extent of encroachment and identify priority areas for action.
