Guwahati, 15th September: A recent eviction drive in Kachutali, Sonapur, has forced a number of evictees to vacate their homes following an administrative directive. Families were seen hurriedly packing their belongings, including traditional items, and relocating to alternative sites. This latest eviction operation, which began on September 9, was carried out by the Kamrup Metropolitan district administration under heavy security, including police and paramilitary forces.
The drive was initiated to address unauthorized structures on government land, responding to concerns over illegal settlements. Reports indicate that some encroachers had utilized the Kallang river route to settle in Kachutali, where they had been living for an extended period.
Tensions escalated on September 12 when the eviction drive turned violent. The confrontation resulted in at least three individuals sustaining bullet injuries, and 15 policemen—including a magistrate and a revenue circle officer—were injured. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma attributed the violence to interference by Congress party members, which exacerbated tensions.
“The eviction drive was proceeding peacefully until the Congress intervened. The crowd, armed with lathis and bamboo sticks, attacked police personnel and government officials,” stated CM Sarma. He noted that Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia’s criticism had further inflamed public sentiment, contributing to the conflict.
Read More: Sikkim Government Announces Major Infrastructure and Tourism Projects