The Assam Uriamghat eviction drive began on July 28, sparking humanitarian concerns across the state. Authorities sent bulldozers and hundreds of security personnel into Rengma Reserve Forest, near the Assam–Nagaland border, to clear what they called “illegal encroachments.”
More than 10,000 people, mostly from the Miya Muslim community, now face displacement. Over 80% of residents left voluntarily, but many remain. The next phase of the operation resumes on July 29, and officials have said it will continue through August.
Why the Assam Uriamghat Eviction Drive Began
The eviction drive stems from Assam’s push to protect ecologically sensitive forest zones. Officials say the settlements in the Rengma Reserve Forest violate the Assam Forest Regulation Act, 1891. In 2022, the Gauhati High Court ordered the state to act against such encroachments.
“This is about protecting forest land, not targeting communities,” said Golaghat Deputy Commissioner Diganta Kalita.
The state government argues that unchecked settlement harms biodiversity. However, critics question the timing and scale of the operation.
Who Are the Displaced Communities?
The people affected by the Assam Uriamghat eviction drive are mostly Miya Muslims, Bengali-origin Assamese Muslims who have lived in the region for decades. Many work as farmers, laborers, or small business owners.
“I built my home with my life savings. I don’t know where we’ll go now,” said Rahimuddin Ali, a 45-year-old father of four.
Though the state gave eviction notices, many families couldn’t move due to financial hardship or lack of documentation. Community leaders claim the state failed to provide relocation assistance or legal recourse.
Bulldozers, Police, and Forced Removal
On July 28, bulldozers began flattening homes, schools, and shops under heavy police protection. More than 500 personnel, including armed units, secured the area. The demolitions led to emotional scenes as families tried to salvage belongings.
Several NGOs arrived with emergency aid, including food, water, and temporary shelters. However, displaced residents said the help was too little, too late.
“This isn’t forest protection—it’s a humanitarian disaster,” said a Human Rights Watch India spokesperson.
Environmental Concerns vs. Human Rights
The Rengma Reserve Forest is an important ecological zone. Environmental groups have long warned that encroachment could damage wildlife habitats and water systems.
Still, activists and legal experts argue that forest preservation must respect human rights. They stress the need for rehabilitation, legal transparency, and community dialogue.
The eviction also highlights Assam’s ongoing land identity crisis—where politics, ethnicity, and conservation often collide.
Political Reactions and Legal Pushback
Opposition parties like AIUDF and Congress have condemned the Uriamghat evictions, calling them discriminatory. Some leaders claim the operation targets one religious group under the guise of environmental protection.
Meanwhile, civil society groups plan to file a public interest litigation (PIL) in the Gauhati High Court. They are demanding a temporary stay and compensation for the displaced.
“This is state-led displacement without justice or fairness,” said AIUDF leader Aminul Islam.
What Happens Next?
The government has identified additional “encroached zones” in Golaghat district. Evictions will continue over the next few weeks. Authorities have made it clear: no compensation will be given for “illegal” structures.
Locals fear that more families will be forced into homelessness. Without legal support or relief measures, the situation could escalate into a larger crisis.
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