Guwahati, Assam: Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday stood firm on the state’s ongoing eviction drives, terming the issuance of notices as the “most humane step” in the process. His remarks came in response to sharp criticism from the All Assam Minority Students’ Union (AAMSU), who have voiced strong objections to the operations.
The Chief Minister, speaking to the media after inaugurating the newly constructed Chirang District BJP office at Kajalgaon in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), asserted that if individuals fail to vacate even after receiving notices, the government would be compelled to deploy machinery to clear encroachments. He further warned of a “militant solution” if AAMSU proceeded with its threat of a “militant movement” against the evictions.
Dr. Sarma highlighted the progress of the BJP’s infrastructural development in BTR, stating that party offices have been established in all districts except Udalguri, with plans to complete the Udalguri office within the next one to two months. On the subject of candidate selection for upcoming elections in BTR, the Chief Minister indicated a pragmatic approach, stating that the BJP would only issue tickets in constituencies where victory is assured.
Regarding the ongoing eviction drive in the Bilasipara-Chapar region of Dhubri district, Dr. Sarma claimed that a significant 90% of the local populace supports the initiative. He reiterated that these operations would ultimately benefit the public, especially through the potential establishment of industries in the cleared areas. While acknowledging that 10% of the population opposed the evictions, he stressed that the drives were being carried out peacefully.
The Chief Minister’s strong stance comes amidst escalating political and social tensions surrounding land eviction drives across various parts of western Assam.
Read More: Alia Bhatt’s Former PA Arrested in Bengaluru for Alleged Rs 76 Lakh Fraud