Assam: 1500 families settled in government land evicted from Morigaon

In a significant move aimed at reclaiming government land, authorities in Assam's Morigaon district have initiated a large-scale eviction drive targeting around 1,500 families residing illegally on forest and railway lands. 

The affected area, located in Silbhanga village, Jagiroad, has become a focal point for the administration's crackdown on encroachments.

District Commissioner Devashish Sarma confirmed that the eviction notice affects approximately 10,000 individuals who have settled unlawfully on government property. 

The eviction operation, which commenced recently, involves the use of bulldozers from the railway department to clear the encroached land.

The railway department's action follows a notification mandating the clearance of the area within a week, underscoring the urgency and scale of the operation. 

The administration, bolstered by a substantial paramilitary presence, is prepared to enforce the eviction order despite potential tensions in the region.

Silbhanga in Jagiroad has long been contentious due to illegal constructions and alleged criminal activities reported in the area. Previous eviction attempts have been met with resistance, highlighting the challenges faced by authorities in reclaiming and maintaining control over the disputed land.

Local residents and stakeholders have expressed concerns over the sudden enforcement, reflecting broader anxieties about displacement and the administration's approach to land disputes. The situation remains tense as authorities continue to implement the eviction with stringent measures, underscoring ongoing efforts to curb illegal settlements and restore government land.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to uphold the rule of law in addressing encroachments, signaling a firm stance against illegal occupation of public lands despite the challenges posed by resistance and local sentiments.

As the eviction operation unfolds, the district administration remains vigilant, coordinating efforts with law enforcement agencies to ensure the orderly removal of unauthorized structures and settlement in Silbhanga village, Jagiroad.