Are Eviction Drives Targeting 'Miya-Muslim' Encroachers Rather Than Minority Areas?
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Synopsis
In a recent press conference, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma clarified that the state's eviction drives are specifically directed at 'Miya-Muslims' accused of land encroachment, countering claims they target minority regions. This statement raises significant questions about the implications for local communities and land rights in Assam.
Key Takeaways
- Eviction drives target illegal settlements.
- 'Miya-Muslims' are the primary focus.
- Tribal groups may be eligible for land rights.
- Protests will not alter government policy.
- 1.29 lakh bighas have been reclaimed.
Guwahati, Aug 11 (NationPress) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Monday, dismissed the claims that the current eviction drives by the state administration are targeting areas predominantly inhabited by minorities. Instead, he emphasized that these actions specifically focus on 'Miya-Muslims', who are accused of illegally occupying forest and other designated lands.
While speaking to journalists in Chirang, Chief Minister Sarma clarified that the operations are aimed at clearing unauthorized settlements from forest regions, village grazing reserves, and professional grazing reserves that have been taken over by members of this community.
The term 'Miya' is often used derogatorily in Assam to describe Bengali-speaking Muslims, many of whom are viewed by other communities as migrants from Bangladesh.
"Eviction is not occurring in minority areas. The focus is on 'Miya-Muslims' who have encroached on forest or reserved land," added the Chief Minister.
He pointed out that tribal communities like the Bodo and Mising may be eligible for land rights ('patta'), but non-tribals are not entitled to claim forest land under current regulations.
According to the Chief Minister, 'Miya-Muslims' already possess large swathes of the riverine 'chars'—fertile sandbanks along the Brahmaputra—and cautioned against their migration into districts such as Sivasagar, Jorhat, and Golaghat.
"Where will the Assamese people reside?" he questioned.
In response to protests by the All Assam Minority Students' Union (AAMSU) in Dhubri regarding the eviction drives, Chief Minister Sarma made it clear that public demonstrations would not sway government policy.
"If AAMSU escalates their protests, further evictions will take place," he warned.
Addressing concerns that land cleared in Golaghat and Karbi Anglong would be transferred to large industrial companies, CM Sarma stated that the reclaimed areas will be designated for plantations.
Reaffirming his government's dedication, CM Sarma stated that the eviction initiative would persist until all encroached lands are retrieved.
Out of the 29 lakh bighas under encroachment in Assam, he noted that 1.29 lakh bighas have been reclaimed in the past four years.
Point of View
It is crucial to present an unbiased perspective on the ongoing eviction drives in Assam. While the government asserts that these measures are aimed at specific encroachments, the broader ramifications for local communities and inter-community relations must be considered. A balanced approach is essential to foster dialogue and understanding in this complex issue.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the eviction drives in Assam about?
The eviction drives in Assam are aimed at removing illegal settlements, particularly focusing on 'Miya-Muslims' accused of encroaching on forest and reserved lands.
Who is affected by these eviction drives?
The eviction drives primarily target 'Miya-Muslims' and illegal encroachers occupying designated lands, while tribal groups like the Bodo and Mising may qualify for land rights.
What is the government's stance on public protests?
Chief Minister Sarma has stated that public protests will not influence government policy, and escalated protests could lead to increased eviction actions.
How much land has been reclaimed so far?
Out of the 29 lakh bighas under encroachment in Assam, approximately 1.29 lakh bighas have been cleared in the past four years.
What are the concerns regarding land management?
Concerns have arisen about land cleared possibly being handed over to large industrial companies, but the government asserts it will be used for plantations.
