Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made a big statement on Friday saying that some people from states like Bihar and West Bengal are illegally occupying government and forest land of the state. The Chief Minister made it clear that the government is identifying such people and their names, addresses and other information are being collected and given to the concerned state officials. He has also ordered an investigation to find out whether these people are really residents of India or have come from another country.
Chief Minister reached Uriyamghat before action
The Chief Minister said that incidents of illegal occupation have come to light in many districts like Sribhumi, Dhubri, Cachar, Hojai, Nagaon and Morigaon. People from Bengal and Bihar have also been found involved in these areas. Recently, some encroachment removal action was taken on a small scale in Goalpara and Dhubri. After this, the administration is also preparing for major action in Uriyamghat. However, the Chief Minister himself reached Uriyamghat and took stock of the situation.
Cooperation sought from local people
Sarma said that the government cannot remain silent on illegal encroachments. He clarified that if anyone is illegally occupying government or forest land, he will be removed. He appealed to the local citizens for cooperation to ensure that illegal activities are stopped in the area. He said that wherever encroachment is taking place, crimes like drug abuse and theft are also increasing.
Encroachments will be removed in more than 30 villages
According to the administration, so far more than 3000 bighas of land of more than 30 villages has been encroached, which is planned to be vacated. The encroachers have already been given notice and asked to vacate the place before July. Many people have started leaving the village on their own vehicles after receiving the notice. The administration has warned that those who do not move on their own will be removed by force.
Monitoring is being done with drones
The Chief Minister inspected the border area with the help of drones along with senior officials including Sarupathar MLA Biswajit Phukan and District Magistrate Pulak Mohanta. He said that if the suspected citizens leave Uriyamghat on their own, then the action there can be postponed for the time being. But if the situation does not improve, the government will not hesitate in taking strict action.
