Assam: Congress leader Debabrata Saikia raises alarm over Karbi Anglong eviction notice, says thousands at risk

Tensions flared in the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) as plans for evictions from areas designated as Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) and Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) were unveiled. The issue took center stage during the budget session of the assembly, sparking debate and raising concerns about the fate of thousands of residents.

During the assembly session, Congress leader Debabrata Saikia drew attention to a news report titled "Karbi Autonomous Council eviction notice, sacking of 10 government Gaon Burahs who have been allowed to live on government land in Kheroni," speaking on the contentious eviction notices issued to several individuals, including government-appointed Gaon Burahs.

Debabrata Saikia said that the eviction notices, particularly targeting individuals residing in Kheroni village, have  affected approximately 10,000 people. Many residents, backed by certificates proving residency since 1940 and inclusion in the National Register of Citizens (NRC), now face an uncertain future as they are asked to vacate the land they have called home for decades.

The situation has escalated further as conflicting statements emerged from government officials. Last year, both Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa and Tuliram Ronghang, the Chief Executive Member of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council, had assured residents that there would be no evictions. However, recent developments have contradicted these promises, leaving residents disillusioned and anxious about their fate.

In response to the mounting criticism, Assam Minister Jogen Mohan defended the eviction plans, citing historical precedents dating back to 1933 when the Professional Grazing Reserve was established. Mohan highlighted alleged illegal settlements and the suspension of Gaon Burahs for negligence of duties as justifications for the evictions.

However, the eviction plans have ignited a broader debate concerning the constitutional rights of citizens, particularly Article 14 (Right to Equality before the law), Article 15 (Right against discrimination), and Article 19 (Right to settle anywhere in India). Critics argue that while the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution grants special provisions to autonomous regions, the fundamental rights of citizens should not be compromised.