Massive Eviction Drive Clears 1,500 Hectares in Assam

In Assam's Golaghat district, authorities have embarked on a significant eviction drive targeting encroachments across nearly 1,500 hectares of forest land. The operation, in its second day on Wednesday, could displace about 1,500 families, primarily from the Muslim community, according to officials.

The clearance effort commenced at the Rengma Reserve Forest in Uriamghat, near the Assam-Nagaland border. Despite claims of illegal encroachments, there are government-sanctioned structures like schools and health centers in the area, which has fueled controversy.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has defended the drive, emphasizing a mission to reclaim lands for legitimate citizens of Assam. Meanwhile, the affected families, some brought to the region decades ago, face uncertainty, questioning the necessity of their eviction without adequate resettlement plans.

(With inputs from agencies.)