Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has strongly defended the state’s ongoing eviction drives, declaring that no activist or external force will be allowed to interfere in government actions. His sharp response came on Saturday, October 25, after social activist Medha Patkar criticized the evictions being carried out in various parts of Assam.
Sarma said that the evictions are aimed at protecting government land and ensuring lawful ownership for rightful citizens. He emphasized that the operations will continue unhindered, regardless of objections from activists or organizations not connected with Assam’s local realities.
The Chief Minister reiterated that the eviction drives are conducted within the framework of the law and are essential for maintaining order and fairness in land distribution.
“Assam Will Not Bow to Outsiders,” Says Sarma
In a firm tone, Sarma warned Medha Patkar against interfering in Assam’s internal matters. He said that individuals from outside the state have no right to comment on administrative measures that are designed for the welfare of Assam’s people.
The Chief Minister stated that the government’s decisions are based on ground realities, not on ideological positions taken by activists with little understanding of local challenges. He added that Assam’s people have supported these drives. Recognizing them as part of a broader effort to secure land rights and prevent illegal occupation.
His remarks have sparked renewed discussion on the balance between humanitarian activism and state governance, especially in regions grappling with encroachment-related disputes.
Eviction Drives to Protect Government Land
The Assam government has been conducting eviction drives in several districts, including Darrang, Sonitpur, and Lakhimpur. Where large tracts of government land have reportedly been occupied illegally. These operations have often faced opposition from various groups. Including activists advocating for displaced families.
Sarma maintained that the government provides rehabilitation measures for genuine landless families, but illegal occupation of public property cannot be tolerated. He added that evictions are necessary to ensure the land is available for developmental projects, schools, and agricultural use by rightful beneficiaries.
The Chief Minister asserted that allowing encroachments to persist would be a betrayal of the state’s legal citizens and their rights. He said that his administration remains committed to protecting public land and maintaining law and order.
Medha Patkar’s Remarks and Political Reactions
Medha Patkar, known for her activism in the Narmada Bachao Andolan, recently voiced concern over Assam’s eviction policy. Claiming it displaces poor and marginalized communities. Her comments drew sharp criticism from Sarma and state leaders. Who accused her of politicizing an administrative process.
Political analysts see Sarma’s response as a reaffirmation of his government’s tough stance on land issues. Some believe his comments reflect a broader political message one that positions the state as uncompromising on law enforcement and development priorities.
Meanwhile, several social organizations have urged both sides to engage in dialogue to ensure that humanitarian concerns are addressed while maintaining law and order.
Land Rights and Development: The Broader Debate
The eviction issue has become a recurring topic in Assam’s political landscape. Land encroachment, particularly on forest and government property. Has long been a challenge for successive governments. With rapid population growth and migration, the question of who owns and occupies land has become increasingly complex.
Experts argue that the key lies in balancing development with human rights. While the government insists that eviction is a legal necessity. Activists believe rehabilitation and alternative housing solutions should come first.
The Sarma-led government, however, maintains that adequate notice and legal due process are followed before any eviction. It also highlights the establishment of resettlement programs for eligible families under various welfare schemes.
Public Reaction and Support for the Government
Public response to the Chief Minister’s statement has been mixed. Many Assamese citizens have expressed support for the government’s firm approach, saying that reclaiming public land is crucial for sustainable growth and resource management.
Others, however, have called for more compassionate implementation, stressing that poor families should not be left homeless without proper rehabilitation. Social media platforms have seen intense debate, with users weighing in on both sides of the issue.
Local community leaders in eviction-affected districts have urged the government to combine strict enforcement with empathy. They say that resolving the issue peacefully will help maintain social harmony while supporting the state’s development agenda.
Assam’s Vision for Fair Land Governance
Himanta Biswa Sarma’s administration continues to present its anti-encroachment policy as part of a larger vision for transparent land governance. The government plans to digitize land records, identify encroachments using satellite mapping. And ensure equitable land distribution under welfare programs.
The Chief Minister said his government will not compromise on law enforcement. Although, even if it invites criticism. “We will continue these eviction drives because protecting Assam’s land is protecting Assam’s future,” he stated firmly.
Sarma also emphasized that no activist no matter how influential will be allowed to disrupt administrative actions. Further, that have the backing of the law and the people.
Call to Action
The ongoing eviction drives in Assam represent more than just administrative action they embody a test of governance, justice, and compassion. As debates intensify, the government’s challenge will be to balance development with humanity. Ensuring lawful ownership while safeguarding the rights of the vulnerable remains the true measure of progress.