In a sweeping land reclamation effort, the Assam government on June 16, 2025, launched a major eviction drive in Goalpara district, targeting over 1,500 bighas of encroached government land in the Hasilabeel area under Balijana revenue circle. The operation, part of a broader statewide initiative, was conducted under heavy security deployment and supervised by senior district and police officials.
Key Highlights of the Eviction Drive
- Targeted Area: 1,555 bighas of land allegedly encroached by 667 families, primarily from the migrant Bengali-speaking community
- Start Time: 7:00 AM, with 20 bulldozers and excavators deployed
- Supervision: Goalpara DC Khanindra Chaudhary, SSP Navneet Mahanta, and IGP Akhilesh Kumar Singh
- Structures Demolished: Homes, shops, five lower primary schools, and a Jal Jeevan Mission project
Peaceful Yet Painful Operation
Officials reported no resistance from residents, many of whom vacated voluntarily after receiving eviction notices—first issued in 2023 and again in early 2024, with final warnings delivered on June 14. However, the eviction has sparked humanitarian concerns, with displaced families citing lack of rehabilitation, short notice, and loss of decades-old homes.
Government’s Stand on Encroachment
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended the drive, stating:
“We have carried out eviction drives in every district over the past four years. The message is clear—encroachment will not be tolerated.”
The administration emphasized that the reclaimed land will be used for infrastructure and welfare projects, and that the operation is part of a statewide campaign to deter future illegal settlements.
