Tensions ran high in Assam’s Kokrajhar district on Tuesday as the All BTC Minority Students’ Union (ABMSU) held a massive protest at Bedlangmari. The organization demanded an immediate halt to eviction drives across the state.
Leaders of ABMSU criticized the government’s eviction measures, which they claim are displacing thousands of people without proper rehabilitation.
ABMSU Raises Strong Objections
Speaking at the protest, ABMSU President Shabir Ahmed said:
“We are not against development. But the government cannot throw poor families out of their homes without rehabilitation. This is inhumane.”
The organization accused authorities of conducting evictions in minority-dominated areas, leaving many families homeless and vulnerable.
Delhi Protest Threatened
ABMSU has warned of a massive demonstration in New Delhi if the Assam government fails to address their concerns.
Ahmed stated:
“If our voices are ignored, we will take our agitation to Delhi. We will not rest until justice is served for those who lost their homes.”
This threat signals an escalation that could draw national attention to the eviction crisis.
Eviction Drives Across Assam
Eviction drives have been a contentious issue in Assam for years. The government maintains that these operations target illegal encroachments on government and forest lands.
However, critics say that many evicted families have valid documents but lack legal support to fight eviction notices.
Local reports indicate that areas in Barpeta, Nagaon, and Kokrajhar districts have seen large-scale evictions in recent months.
Calls for Rehabilitation and Dialogue
ABMSU has urged the state government to implement rehabilitation plans for families already displaced. The group demanded compensation, alternative housing, and government support to rebuild livelihoods.
Ahmed added:
“The government cannot demolish homes without providing alternatives. People are suffering without shelter, food, and basic facilities.”
Human Rights Groups Express Concern
Several human rights groups have echoed ABMSU’s concerns about the humanitarian impact of the eviction drives. They warn of rising tensions in affected communities and potential social unrest.
An activist from Human Rights Law Network told local media:
“These evictions violate basic human rights. Families are forced onto the streets, with children missing school and people losing livelihoods.”
Assam Government Defends Action
Assam officials, however, defend the evictions as lawful and necessary. A senior government official told Assam Tribune:
“We are removing illegal encroachments. The government will consider rehabilitation, but illegal occupation cannot be allowed.”
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has repeatedly stated that clearing encroachments is part of the state’s development and conservation goals.
Political Reactions
The eviction drives have sparked political reactions across party lines. While BJP leaders support the government’s actions, opposition parties have condemned the evictions, calling them anti-poor and discriminatory.
The Congress Party and AIUDF have both demanded a halt to evictions until a clear rehabilitation plan is in place.
The ABMSU protests eviction drives in Assam highlight a growing crisis over land, rights, and rehabilitation. As evictions continue, pressure mounts on the government to balance development with human rights. Whether the ABMSU takes its fight to Delhi remains to be seen, but the call for justice grows louder each day.