Assam’s Determined Stance: Intensified Eviction Drive Targets Illegal Encroachers

Guwahati, Assam – July 26, 2025 – In a resolute assertion of land rights and environmental preservation, the Assam government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has intensified its comprehensive Assam eviction drive across the state. This ambitious campaign targets the reclamation of vast swathes of government, forest, Satra (Vaishnavite monastery), and grazing lands that have fallen victim to illegal occupation. The ongoing efforts are not merely about reclaiming territory but about safeguarding Assam’s ecological balance, cultural heritage, and vital resources for its indigenous population.

The sheer scale of the challenge is evident, with an estimated 29 lakh bighas of land still under illegal occupation. However, the government’s steadfast commitment is clear, having already cleared 1.29 lakh bighas over the past four years. This proactive approach aims to set a precedent, deterring future encroachments and ensuring the sustainable development of the state.

A Deeper Look into the Assam Eviction Drive and Verification Process

A critical component of this intensified Assam eviction drive involves a robust verification process, especially for those encroachers who claim to be from outside the state, notably from Bihar. The government is taking meticulous steps to ascertain the true origins of individuals occupying these lands.

• Collecting Critical Data: Authorities are diligently collecting detailed information from encroachers, including their names, complete addresses, and identity particulars. This data forms the bedrock of the verification process.
• Inter-State Verification: The collected details will be systematically forwarded to the respective district authorities in the claimed home districts of these individuals, both within Assam (like Cachar, Sribhumi, Dhubri, Hojai, Nagaon, Morigaon) and in other states such as Bihar.
• Distinguishing Genuine Residents: The primary objective of this verification is to distinguish between genuine residents of Assam and those who might be “from across the border,” occupying land illegally. This ensures that legal and appropriate action can be taken based on accurate identification.
• Consequences of False Claims: While genuine migrants whose home-district credentials are verified will not face undue hardship, any false claims or misrepresentations of identity will lead to decisive and firm action by the authorities, reinforcing the integrity of the Assam eviction drive.

Reclaiming and Restoring: Progress and Future Plans

The Assam eviction drive has already yielded significant results, with hundreds of bighas of forest land successfully reclaimed.

• Voluntary Compliance: A notable aspect of the operation has been the willingness of many encroachers to vacate the occupied lands voluntarily, demonstrating an understanding of the government’s firm stance and the legal ramifications.
• Notices and Operations: In areas like Negribil, notices have been served to remaining occupants, urging them to leave before formal anti-encroachment operations commence. This pre-emptive measure aims to minimize conflict and facilitate a smoother reclamation process.
• Legal Resilience: The entire eviction campaign has been meticulously planned and executed to withstand legal scrutiny, ensuring that all actions are within the bounds of law and order.

Collaborative Efforts for a Secure Future

The success of the Assam eviction drive hinges on multifaceted cooperation and community vigilance.

• Inter-State Support: Nagaland authorities have extended their cooperation, committing to prevent any individuals evicted from Assam from crossing into their territory. This inter-state coordination is vital in managing potential displacement and preventing further unauthorized settlements.
• Community Engagement and Vigilance: Chief Minister Sarma has underscored the critical importance of local cooperation, citing reports of illicit activities often associated with occupied areas. He has passionately urged the citizens of Assam to remain vigilant against new encroachments, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring and active community engagement to protect their land. This collaborative approach ensures that the benefits of the Assam eviction drive are long-lasting.

The ongoing Assam eviction drive is a powerful statement of the government’s resolve to protect its natural resources and maintain the demographic integrity of the state. By meticulously verifying identities and collaborating with neighboring regions, Assam is not only reclaiming its land but also laying the foundation for a more secure, sustainable, and prosperous future for all its citizens. This determined effort reflects a broader vision of accountable governance and environmental stewardship.