Assam launches eviction drive in Dhubri to clear encroached land
Nearly 550 families face displacement as the government moves to reclaim 650 bighas of land in Alamganj Part-IX.
The Assam government began an eviction drive in Alamganj Part-IX of Dhubri district on Sunday to clear 650 bighas of land. According to The Pioneer, the operation started around 6 am in the Gauripur Revenue Circle with the help of excavators and heavy machinery.
District Commissioner Dibakar Nath stated that notices were issued to approximately 700 families occupying about 800 bighas of land. The administration excluded 150 families occupying nearly 150 bighas from the drive because they approached the court for relief and the matter is sub judice.
Nath said the operation was proceeding peacefully and noted that several families had left the area on their own after receiving notices. He added that the administration intended to finish the exercise on Sunday.
The drive involved thousands of police and civil administration personnel, along with 50 excavators and tractor-trolleys. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared visuals of the site on social media, noting the drive is part of a state campaign to reclaim government and forest land.
Some residents claimed they bought plots from private individuals without knowing the land was government property and requested alternative housing. The administration maintained the land is government property and the eviction is being conducted according to the law.
A court hearing regarding the families seeking legal relief is scheduled for November 13.