The Alarming Encroachment of Assam Land: A Critical Challenge

The issue of land encroachment in Assam has once again taken center stage, following a significant declaration by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. At an event marking the fourth anniversary of the Gorukhuti Multipurpose Agriculture Project, Sarma asserted that a staggering 10 lakh acres of land within Assam’s borders have been encroached upon, primarily by “illegal Bangladeshis” and “doubtful citizens.” This statement has reignited public discourse on a long-standing and sensitive issue, underscoring the state government’s ongoing commitment to reclaiming these valuable lands.

Understanding the Scale of Assam Land Encroachment

• Vast Area Affected: The Chief Minister’s claim of 10 lakh acres (approximately 4,047 square kilometers) highlights the immense scale of the encroachment. To put this into perspective, this area is larger than several small countries, signifying a significant loss of state land resources.
• Identified Perpetrators: Sarma specifically pointed fingers at “illegal Bangladeshis” and “doubtful citizens,” categories that have historically been central to the demographic concerns in the region. This identification underscores the complex socio-political dimensions of the issue.
• Government’s Unwavering Resolve: The Chief Minister’s statements reaffirmed his government’s steadfast commitment to ensuring that every encroached inch of land is reclaimed. This resolve forms the cornerstone of their policy regarding Assam land encroachment.

Key Initiatives and Progress in Combating Assam Land Encroachment

• The Gorukhuti Model: The Gorukhuti Multipurpose Agriculture Project stands as a testament to the government’s strategy. The 2021 eviction drive in Gorukhuti, Darrang district, successfully cleared an impressive 25,500 acres. This operation was not merely an isolated incident but served as a blueprint, inspiring similar drives across the state.
• Significant Reclamation Achieved: Over the past four years, the state has reportedly reclaimed approximately 43,000 acres of encroached land. A substantial portion of this reclaimed land is being dedicated to afforestation, indicating a dual objective of land recovery and environmental restoration.
• Facing External Pressures: The path to reclaiming land has not been without its challenges. Chief Minister Sarma revealed that the state faced “international pressure” to halt the eviction drive following the 2021 Gorukhuti incident. This highlights the diplomatic and humanitarian complexities often interwoven with such large-scale operations concerning Assam land encroachment.

The Broader Implications of Assam Land Encroachment

• Demographic Shifts: The issue of encroachment is deeply linked to concerns about demographic changes in Assam, particularly in border areas. This has implications for cultural identity, resource distribution, and the social fabric of the state.
• Resource Management: Land is a finite and crucial resource. Large-scale encroachment impacts agricultural potential, forest cover, and overall land-use planning, posing significant challenges for sustainable development.
• Security Concerns: The presence of “doubtful citizens” and “illegal Bangladeshis” on encroached land also raises questions about border security and national integrity, adding another layer of complexity to the issue.
• Socio-Economic Impact: The eviction drives, while aimed at reclaiming land, also have socio-economic consequences for the evicted populations, necessitating careful consideration of rehabilitation and alternative livelihoods.

The persistent challenge of Assam land encroachment demands a multi-faceted approach, encompassing robust legal frameworks, effective enforcement, and sensitive handling of humanitarian aspects. As the government continues its efforts, the resolution of this issue will be pivotal in shaping the future of Assam, ensuring the integrity of its land and the well-being of its diverse population. The ongoing battle against Assam land encroachment remains a critical test of governance and resolve.