The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has issued a strong rebuttal to allegations made by the Autonomous People’s Human Liberation Council (APHLC). Regarding its flagship land rights initiative, “Purthimi Akemang 1.0 and 2.0.” The controversy erupted in Karbi Anglong after APHLC chief JI Kathar accused the BJP of mismanaging the scheme and using it for political advantage.
Addressing a press conference at the BJP district office in Diphu, party spokesperson Laichen Engleng dismissed the allegations as “baseless and politically motivated.” Engleng stated that the BJP government’s land policies. Are designed to ensure that every eligible tribal family in Karbi Anglong receives rightful ownership of their ancestral land without discrimination.
“Purthimi Akemang” Project Meant for All Communities
The Purthimi Akemang 1.0 and 2.0 initiatives were launched under the vision of empowering local tribal families through secure land ownership. Engleng emphasized that the schemes follow a transparent process. And include all deserving beneficiaries, regardless of political affiliation.
He accused the APHLC of attempting to “exploit emotional issues” for political gain ahead of the 2026 Assam Assembly elections. According to Engleng, such misleading campaigns only create confusion among the people and threaten the peace and unity that the BJP has maintained in the autonomous hill districts.
The spokesperson reaffirmed that the land patta distribution process is being carried out through fair verification by the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) and that no individual or community has been unfairly excluded.
BJP Accuses APHLC of Political Opportunism
Engleng directly criticized APHLC leader JI Kathar, accusing him of distorting facts and “spreading lies to weaken public trust.” He said Kathar’s claims that BJP leaders are monopolizing land allotments are completely unfounded.
“The BJP government believes in fairness and accountability. Every land patta issued under Purthimi Akemang is documented, verified, and transparent. The APHLC’s narrative is nothing more than an attempt to divide the hill communities,” Engleng declared.
He further alleged that Kathar and his party are resorting to political theatrics as they have failed to deliver any tangible development during their previous tenures in local governance.
Karbi Anglong Residents React to Political Row
The land patta issue has sparked intense public debate in Karbi Anglong. Residents in Diphu and adjoining areas have expressed mixed reactions, with some appreciating the BJP’s ongoing efforts to regularize land ownership, while others have voiced concerns about bureaucratic delays and alleged favoritism.
Several local youth groups have urged both parties to refrain from politicizing the land issue, calling for a joint verification mechanism to ensure equal access to land rights for all eligible citizens.
Social activists have also highlighted the importance of balancing development with indigenous protection. Also, stressing that fair implementation of Purthimi Akemang could serve as a model for other tribal-dominated districts in Assam.
BJP Reaffirms Development Commitment in Hill Districts
During the press briefing, Engleng reiterated that the BJP’s focus remains on inclusive growth, improved infrastructure. And, secure land tenure for the hill communities. He emphasized that the Purthimi Akemang schemes align with the government’s broader goal. Further, of empowering local governance under the Sixth Schedule framework.
Engleng also mentioned that the next phase of Purthimi Akemang 2.0 will include digital land record management to enhance transparency and reduce disputes. Also, this initiative aims to bring administrative clarity. And empower residents to access their land documents online.
The BJP spokesperson assured that the party will not be swayed by “baseless political attacks” and will continue its commitment to welfare and transparency in the hill region.
APHLC’s Counterclaims and Political Context
In response to the BJP’s statements, APHLC members have accused the ruling party of attempting to silence dissenting voices. They allege that the distribution process under Purthimi Akemang favors BJP supporters. And undermines the autonomous rights of local communities.
Political analysts see the ongoing dispute as part of a larger battle for influence in the hill districts. Which hold strategic importance in Assam’s electoral landscape. Likewise, with the Assembly polls approaching. Both parties are expected to intensify their outreach efforts across Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong.
BJP Calls for Peace and Public Trust
In closing, Engleng urged the public not to be misled by opposition propaganda. He appealed to the people of Karbi Anglong to verify facts before forming opinions. Furthermore, assuring that the BJP’s goal is to promote justice and equitable development.
“The land belongs to the people, and the government’s job is to ensure its rightful ownership,” he said. “Our commitment is clear no one will be deprived, and no one will be favored unfairly.”
The BJP’s statement marks a significant moment in the ongoing political discourse over land rights in Assam’s hill districts. As the debate continues. Although, all eyes remain on the party’s next move in implementing Purthimi Akemang 2.0. And sustaining trust among the tribal communities.
