Assam Government Launches Massive Demolition Drive

The Assam government has made headlines with a sweeping demolition operation targeting nearly 1,700 homes belonging to Muslim families. The action, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has ignited widespread controversy, protests, and fierce political debate across the country.

Why Were 1,700 Muslim Families Targeted?

According to state authorities, the demolished houses were built on government land earmarked for a major thermal power project by Assam Power Tribunals Company Limited. Over 3,500 bighas (more than 450 hectares) of land were cleared in villages like Charu, Abakhara, Santoshpur, and Chirakuta Pat. The government claims these lands were illegally occupied, and that residents had already been notified to vacate.

Violent Clashes and Police Response

The demolition drive triggered intense backlash on the ground. As bulldozers moved in, angry crowds clashed with police, leading to stone-pelting and chaotic scenes. The police responded with baton charges to bring the situation under control. Despite attempts to halt the operation, the administration pressed on, citing the need to reclaim government property for public development.

Compensation and Legal Assurances

Officials have stated that families with valid land documents will be compensated or allotted alternative land. Those without documentation are being offered financial aid of ₹500. Notices were reportedly served well in advance, and authorities insist that the process was conducted legally. However, many affected families allege they were given little time or support to relocate.

Political Firestorm: Accusations of Targeting Muslims

The demolition has sparked a political uproar. Opposition parties, including the Congress and Raijor Dal, accuse the BJP-led government of specifically targeting Muslim families to polarize voters and consolidate Hindu support ahead of future elections. Akhil Gogoi, a prominent opposition MLA, called the evictions illegal and unconstitutional, pointing out that the matter is still pending in the Guwahati High Court.

Government’s Defense: Clearing Illegal Encroachments

District officials and the Assam government have firmly defended the action, emphasizing that only illegal encroachments were targeted. They argue that the crackdown is part of a broader mission to free Assam from unauthorized occupation and cross-border infiltration, referencing previous actions against Bangladeshi migrants.

Himanta’s Bulldozer Model: A Pattern of Tough Action

This is not the first time Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has made headlines for such decisive moves. In recent years, his administration has carried out multiple eviction drives, including the removal of thousands of Bangladeshi migrants and the clearing of encroachments in sensitive areas. The government claims these actions are necessary to protect Assam’s resources and security.

Opposition Cries Foul, Communal Tensions Rise

While the government insists on the legality and necessity of the operation, opposition leaders and activists warn that such actions risk deepening communal divides and inflaming social tensions. They argue that the evictions unfairly target minorities and bypass due process.

What’s Next for Assam?

As the dust settles, Assam remains on edge. The government’s tough stance on illegal encroachment continues, but so does the political and social fallout. With legal challenges pending and national attention focused on the state, the debate over development, legality, and minority rights is far from over.