The Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has called on Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to immediately suspend the ongoing eviction drive in Goalpara district, citing violations of human rights and constitutional safeguards.
Debabrata Saikia Writes to CM, Seeks Rehabilitation First
Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia penned a letter to the Chief Minister on June 17, urging the government to pause evictions in Hasila Beel and Rakhyashini areas until proper rehabilitation measures are in place. Saikia emphasized that many of the 667 families evicted on June 16 had been residing in the wetlands for over four decades, with no alternative land or shelter.
“Displacement without dignity is not development,” Saikia wrote, invoking the Supreme Court’s guidelines on eviction and the constitutional right to shelter.
Union Minister Also Appeals for Relief
The Congress leader also referenced a letter from Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Ramdas Athawale, who had requested the Assam government to provide alternative land before initiating any eviction process.
Eviction Drive Sparks Political and Social Backlash
The eviction, which began under heavy security at 7 AM on June 16, is part of a state-wide effort to reclaim 1,500 bighas of government land allegedly encroached upon in Goalpara and Bongaigaon districts. Critics argue that the drive disproportionately affects migrant Bengali-speaking Muslim families, raising concerns over social justice and communal targeting.
Congress Seeks Dialogue Before CM’s June 18 Visit
Saikia has urged the Chief Minister to defer further evictions until his scheduled meeting with affected residents on June 18, and requested the Goalpara District Commissioner be instructed accordingly.
