Assam CM Vows Strong Action Against Encroachers to Protect Tribal Lands

In a resolute declaration on Saturday, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asserted that his government will not allow nefarious elements from encroaching lands belonging to indigenous communities. The statement reflects a firm stance on safeguarding tribal rights and preserving Assam’s territorial integrity amidst growing concerns over illegal encroachments.

Encroaching Lands a Serious Concern in Assam

The issue of encroaching lands has long plagued Assam, particularly in border and forested areas. Illegal settlements, often involving external elements, have triggered tension between communities and posed a threat to the demographic and cultural balance of the region. Speaking at a public event, the Chief Minister emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards such encroachments.

“Assam is not a dumping ground for outsiders. We are committed to ensuring that no nefarious forces take away the rights and land of our indigenous people,” said Sarma.

Government Action to Curb Encroachments

To counter the issue of encroaching lands, the Assam government has already initiated several eviction drives in recent years. These operations, conducted with security support, aim to reclaim illegally occupied land, particularly those belonging to forest reserves and tribal belts.

Sarma reaffirmed his commitment to continuing these actions, stating that protecting the rights of indigenous populations remains a top priority for the administration. He also appealed to the people of Assam to support the government’s efforts and not fall prey to misinformation spread by anti-social elements.

Indigenous Communities Back CM’s Statement

The Chief Minister’s remarks have been widely welcomed by local tribal organizations and civil society groups, who have often voiced concerns about illegal encroachments eroding their traditional land rights. Many believe this strong political backing will help preserve their heritage and way of life.

“We appreciate the Chief Minister’s proactive stand. It’s high time the state took concrete action against those unlawfully settling in protected areas,” said a spokesperson from a prominent tribal council.

Political and Social Implications

The issue of encroaching lands is not merely administrative—it also holds deep political and social implications in Assam. With border tensions and illegal immigration being sensitive topics, the Chief Minister’s strong remarks send a clear message to both the local population and external actors.

Opposition parties, however, have urged the government to ensure that eviction drives are conducted lawfully and without human rights violations. They have also called for a transparent mechanism to distinguish between illegal encroachers and legitimate settlers.

Need for a Long-Term Policy

While immediate actions like evictions may provide temporary relief, experts argue for a comprehensive policy to address the root causes of land encroachment. This includes improving land records, demarcating tribal belts clearly, and ensuring alternative rehabilitation for genuine landless individuals.

The government has hinted at working on long-term land reforms, including the use of satellite mapping technology to monitor land usage and identify illegal settlements.

Conclusion

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s bold commitment to preventing nefarious elements from encroaching lands marks a significant development in Assam’s ongoing struggle with land protection and illegal occupation. With a renewed focus on indigenous rights and territorial integrity, the state is set to adopt more assertive and structured measures against encroachments. While challenges remain, this latest statement sets a clear tone for the future of Assam’s land policies.