Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has blamed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for triggering violence in Goalpara’s Paikan Reserve Forest. He alleged that Gandhi’s recent comments emboldened encroachers, resulting in a deadly clash with authorities.
The incident occurred earlier this week during an eviction drive in the forest area.
Forest and police personnel faced stiff resistance from a mob of settlers. The mob allegedly attacked officers with sticks and stones.
One person died in the clash. Twenty-one personnel were injured, including several forest guards.
CM Sarma: “Rahul Encouraged Encroachment”
Speaking to the press, Sarma accused Gandhi of misleading the public with irresponsible rhetoric. “When Rahul Gandhi says land belongs to everyone, he’s sending a dangerous message,” said Sarma.
“His words are being used by encroachers to justify illegal occupation of government and forest land.” He also said the government had planned the eviction in accordance with court orders.
Local authorities had issued prior warnings and notices to vacate the forest land. But Gandhi’s remarks, according to Sarma, were used to resist lawful action.
Congress Reacts, Denies Involvement
Congress leaders swiftly condemned Sarma’s remarks. They said the CM was deflecting blame from his government’s failure to handle the situation peacefully.
“We stand for the rights of the poor but never promote violence,” said Assam Pradesh Congress Committee spokesperson Zubair Islam.
He accused the BJP government of using high-handed tactics instead of dialogue. He also said the deceased person was a victim of state violence, not an instigator.
Eviction Drive Was Lawful, Say Officials
Goalpara district officials said the drive was conducted based on repeated complaints of forest encroachment.
“The Paikan Reserve Forest is protected land under state law,” said a senior forest officer.
“We followed every legal step before acting.”
Authorities claim over 100 hectares of forest land have been illegally occupied in the region over the past few years.
The encroachment is reportedly threatening biodiversity and forest regeneration. Forest officials had appealed multiple times to relocate settlers to alternative areas.
Violence Draws Public Attention
The incident has sparked debate across Assam. Environmental activists supported the drive, saying conservation must come first. But rights groups questioned the timing and method of the eviction.
“There should be humane resettlement plans before eviction,” said Human Rights Forum of Assam (HRFA) coordinator Meena Deka.
Some have also pointed out that the region has a history of migration and displacement. They stressed the need for better rehabilitation policies.
National Impact and Political Fallout
The issue has now taken center stage in Assam’s political arena. It may also resonate nationally, as parties exchange accusations ahead of upcoming elections. Rahul Gandhi, during his recent Northeast tour, had emphasized land rights and inclusive development.
His statements were widely circulated on social media. The BJP alleges that those very statements inspired resistance to legal action in Goalpara.
Meanwhile, opposition parties are demanding a judicial probe into the violence. They want compensation for the injured and for the family of the deceased.
ECI, NHRC Urged to Step In
Some civil society organizations have appealed to the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
They want both bodies to examine the events in Goalpara.
“This isn’t just about eviction, it’s about how state power was used,” said HRFA in a letter to the NHRC. The state government, however, maintains it acted in accordance with law and public safety.
Call for Transparency and Resolution
The CM’s strong remarks have reignited discussions on land rights, political accountability, and forest preservation.
As the region awaits the outcome of official inquiries, citizens and lawmakers alike are demanding transparency and a peaceful path forward.
The Goalpara clash stands as a stark reminder of the fine balance between environmental protection, human rights, and political responsibility.
Congress Northeast Strategy 2025