Tribal leaders in Assam have intensified their demand for the eviction of illegal settlers from the Tirap tribal belt. They voiced their concerns during a state-level conference of Indigenous Tribal Organisations, Assam, Northeast. The meeting took place on April 3 at Mullang Khamti village in Ledo, Margherita, under Tinsukia district. Representatives from various indigenous communities across the northeast participated, stressing the need to protect their ancestral lands.
Speakers at the conference accused illegal settlers of encroaching on tribal lands, disrupting their traditional way of life, and creating socio-economic challenges. They argued that the government must act swiftly to remove unauthorized occupants to ensure that tribal communities retain their land rights. Many attendees recalled past assurances from authorities but claimed that little action had been taken. They urged immediate intervention to prevent further encroachment.
Community elders and activists described the deep-rooted cultural and historical connection that indigenous people have with their land. They warned that continued encroachment could lead to the erosion of their identity and displacement from their own regions. Several speakers highlighted the adverse effects on agriculture, livelihoods, and natural resources, emphasizing that illegal settlements were leading to deforestation and environmental degradation.
Political leaders present at the conference pledged support for the demand. Some accused the government of failing to enforce land protection laws effectively. They called for stricter regulations and immediate surveys to identify and remove unauthorized settlers. Many attendees insisted that land belonging to tribal groups should remain exclusively under their control, as guaranteed by constitutional provisions and existing legal frameworks.
The demand for eviction is not new, but tribal leaders stressed that the situation had worsened due to continued inaction. They pointed out that past protests and memorandums had not yielded results, forcing them to escalate their movement. Some warned that if authorities failed to respond, they would organize mass demonstrations and legal actions to reclaim their land.
Local residents expressed frustration, stating that illegal encroachments had put pressure on resources and infrastructure. They claimed that schools, healthcare facilities, and water supply systems in the region were struggling due to an increasing population. Many villagers narrated personal stories of losing farmland and facing difficulties in maintaining their traditional livelihoods.
The issue of illegal settlement has remained a contentious topic in Assam for years, with multiple tribal belts facing similar challenges. Indigenous organizations have consistently fought for the protection of their land, fearing that demographic changes could threaten their existence. The government has occasionally conducted eviction drives, but many tribal groups believe these efforts have been insufficient.
During the conference, speakers called for a transparent and fair eviction process. They demanded that authorities work closely with tribal communities to identify settlers who had encroached on their lands. Some leaders proposed stricter penalties for those found guilty of illegal occupation, arguing that only firm action would deter further encroachments.
Tribal leaders also emphasized the need for rehabilitation programs for those affected by evictions. While they insisted that illegal settlers must vacate their lands, they suggested that the government should provide alternative solutions to prevent future conflicts. Some activists stressed that resolving the issue would require a long-term strategy rather than temporary enforcement measures.
Government officials have yet to respond to the demands raised at the conference. However, sources indicated that discussions on tribal land protection were ongoing at various administrative levels. Some leaders hoped that the renewed pressure from indigenous groups would lead to decisive action in the near future.
The conference concluded with a unanimous resolution demanding immediate steps to remove illegal settlers. Participants vowed to continue their struggle until their lands were secured. Many leaders expressed hope that their unity and determination would force authorities to act. The tribal communities of Assam remain firm in their demand for land rights and are prepared to escalate their movement if necessary.
