Guwahati: Kokrajhar is witnessing a troubling turn of events as a significant tribal welfare initiative faces disruption due to serious accusations leveled against a controversial businessman, Sanjan Pal.
The Kokrajhar District Tribal Sangha has come forward with allegations of interference, land grabbing, and theft, casting a shadow over the development of a much-needed Tribal Rest House.
The land in question, measuring 2 bighas, 2 kathas, and 15 lechas, was officially allotted by the Bodoland Territorial Council government on November 13, 2024, under letter no. KRC 13/2019/8. Situated in Pathorghat, Kokrajhar, this land was intended for the construction of a Tribal Rest House, a project valued at approximately Rs. 2 crore and currently overseen by the Tribal Sangha.
However, progress on this vital project has been allegedly hampered by the actions of Sanjan Pal. According to Anil Wary, President of the Kokrajhar District Tribal Sangha, Pal allegedly trespassed onto the construction site and illicitly removed building materials and structural elements. These reportedly included components of a traditional Assamese-style bungalow, along with railings, grills, doors, and window frames taken from several houses.
Following the lodging of a formal complaint with the Kokrajhar Police Station, local law enforcement reportedly recovered the stolen items from Sanjan Pal’s residence in the presence of leaders from the Tribal Sangha. Despite this recovery, the Sangha has expressed dismay and concern over the fact that Sanjan Pal was not apprehended and continues to remain at large. They further allege that the businessman may be part of a larger land mafia operating with potential political or administrative backing.
Anil Wary emphasized the unwavering stance of the tribal community, stating, “The involvement of suspected outsiders attempting to grab tribal land through deceit or force will never be tolerated.” He urged the district administration to take immediate and decisive action in response to these serious allegations.
The Kokrajhar District Tribal Sangha is demanding a comprehensive investigation into the matter, insisting on accountability from the responsible authorities. They have cautioned that any failure to act decisively could embolden further illegal encroachments on land belonging to indigenous communities. This incident has ignited broader concerns within the region regarding the security of tribal land rights, the effective enforcement of protective measures, and the impartiality of the law enforcement agencies.
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