Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the successful recovery of 912 acres of encroached land in Hailakandi district, larger than the campus of IIT Guwahati. This action is part of the state government’s ongoing campaign against illegal occupants. Sarma emphasized the government’s determination to reclaim all encroached land, considering it crucial for the state’s survival.
The eviction drive in Hailakandi is a significant step in the broader initiative to clear forest, government, and reserve lands of alleged illegal settlers. Sarma stressed the importance of this campaign in maintaining Assam’s ecological balance and safeguarding its indigenous identity. The reclaimed 912 acres included lands that had been encroached upon for several years, comprising forest and government areas.
Sarma, who has been actively leading land reclamation efforts since 2021, defended the operations as essential to prevent demographic shifts and illegal occupation by outsiders. He highlighted the impact of unchecked encroachments on population patterns and indigenous communities’ rights. The Chief Minister underscored the necessity of reclaiming land not only for law and order but also for cultural preservation.
The eviction drive in Hailakandi is anticipated to impact hundreds of families. Local authorities have assured that affected individuals will be provided rehabilitation options following government norms. Meanwhile, opposition parties and civil society groups have called for humane treatment and due process for those displaced during the eviction.
