Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has reaffirmed that eviction drives in Assam will continue without pause. Addressing the press on the state’s progress, he revealed that nearly 25,000 acres of government and forest land have been cleared of encroachment since 2021.
Sarma stressed that reclaiming public land remains a core part of his government’s development agenda. He made it clear that the administration will not compromise when it comes to protecting state-owned resources.
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Strong Message from the Chief Minister
Speaking during a media briefing in Guwahati, the CM stated, “We have removed encroachments from 25,000 acres in the last four years, and we will continue to do so. There is no going back.”
The comment comes amid ongoing eviction operations across various districts, including Nagaon, Darrang, and Hojai. According to the CM, these efforts are part of a legal and administrative mandate to restore government land for public use.
Focus on Legal Compliance and Welfare
The CM explained that the eviction drives are being carried out in accordance with legal procedures. He also emphasized that prior notice is given to the occupants. In many cases, alternative housing under government schemes is being offered.
Although some criticism has surfaced, Sarma defended the approach by saying that eviction drives in Assam are necessary to implement welfare schemes like housing for the poor, setting up schools, and expanding public infrastructure.
Forest and Revenue Land Prioritized
Of the 25,000 acres cleared, a significant portion belonged to forest and revenue departments. Several reserved forest areas were under illegal occupation for years. The state government has launched special operations to recover these ecologically sensitive zones.
District officials have been directed to conduct regular surveys and submit detailed reports. As a result, the Forest Department is now preparing reforestation plans for the reclaimed land.
Tribal and Minority Areas Also Affected
Many of the evicted settlements were located in minority-dominated areas. This has led to political debate and social tension in some districts. However, the government insists that the drive is not targeted at any one community.
CM Sarma noted that the focus remains on unauthorized landholding, regardless of religion or ethnicity. He said the state cannot progress if public land remains under illegal occupation.
Reclaimed Land for Development
According to officials, the reclaimed land will be used for development projects, including schools, health centres, roads, and agriculture support systems. The CM mentioned that several of the freed plots have already been marked for low-income housing and public facilities.
He added that clearing encroached areas allows the government to plan and deliver services more efficiently. It also helps in maintaining law and order in sensitive regions.
More Evictions on the Way
The CM warned that eviction drives in Assam will intensify in the coming months. Areas that were surveyed earlier and identified for future action are next in line.
Special task forces have been formed to coordinate operations, maintain peace, and provide rehabilitation wherever possible. CM Sarma assured that while firmness is required, sensitivity will also be maintained.
The Assam government’s decision to continue eviction drives in Assam highlights its commitment to reclaiming public resources. With over 25,000 acres already cleared, the state aims to make more land available for development and welfare schemes.
Though the process remains sensitive and controversial, the government maintains that legal guidelines are being followed and affected families are given options for relocation. The coming months are likely to see an uptick in such operations as Assam pursues its land reform goals.
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