Assam: Evictees from Sonapur eviction site relocate following administrative directive

A section of the evictees from Kachutali in Sonapur have vacated the area following an administrative directive. Vehicles laden with household belongings, including traditional items were seen leaving the site as families moved to alternative locations. The eviction has led to residents hurriedly packing their belongings and departing the area.

The Kamrup Metropolitan district administration initiated a renewed eviction drive at Kachutali on September 9. This operation, spearheaded by senior officials, commenced early in the morning and was executed under heavy security, including the deployment of police and paramilitary forces. The crackdown aimed to dismantle unauthorized structures erected on government land, a response to growing concerns over illegal settlements in the area. It was reported that some encroachers had used the Kallang river route to occupy the land at Kachutali, where they had been residing for an extended period.

Also read: Himanta Biswa Sarma accuses Congress of provoking tensions during Sonapur eviction drive

The situation escalated on Thursday, September 12, when the eviction drive turned violent, resulting in at least three individuals sustaining bullet injuries. Additionally, 15 policemen, including a magistrate and a revenue circle officer, were injured during a fierce confrontation. According to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, the eviction was initially proceeding smoothly until interference by Congress party members exacerbated tensions, leading to the altercation. 

"The eviction drive was proceeding peacefully until the Congress intervened. The crowd, armed with lathis and bamboo sticks, attacked police personnel and government officials," CM Sarma stated. He confirmed that 22 police officers and a Revenue Circle officer were among those injured. The Chief Minister further remarked that Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia's criticism of the drive early in the morning had fueled public outrage, which contributed to the escalation of the conflict.