Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday indicated that the state government is preparing to carry out a massive eviction drive in the Patharkandi area of Sribhumi. Sarma said that JCB machines and backhoe loaders can be used for this. He also clarified that eviction drives will be carried out not only in Patharkandi but also in other areas of Barak Valley. The Chief Minister said, “A plan is being prepared and it will be implemented in the coming time.”
Government’s stand on illegal Bangladeshi citizens
While talking to reporters, Sarma reiterated that illegal citizens from Bangladesh are still being found in Assam. He said, “We get reports from the SP daily that Bangladeshi citizens are being caught. Many people are still present within the state, but the police are not able to catch everyone.” Along with this, he indicated that the government is constantly taking strict action on this issue and special surveillance is going on to stop illegal infiltration.
HCM Dr. @himantabiswa today attended a public meeting at Mundamala Playground, Sribhumi and distributed cheques to 15,671 SHG members in Patharkandi under the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan. pic.twitter.com/D0bnDcyIrn
— Chief Minister Assam (@CMOfficeAssam) September 1, 2025
Assurance regarding the safety of Bengali Hindus
Chief Minister Sarma clearly said that Bengali Hindus are completely safe in Assam. He said, “Ever since I became the Chief Minister, what problem have Bengali Hindus faced? The only issue was the Aadhar card, which we have resolved. Now every Bengali Hindu, Assamese Hindu—all Hindus are one.” His statement is being considered an attempt to reassure the Bengali society, especially in the backdrop when there are constant discussions about infiltration and eviction campaigns in the state.
Minister’s hint in July and background of the controversy
Earlier in July, Public Works Department (Roads) Minister Krishnendu Paul had also indicated that the government would carry out eviction drives in Sribhumi and Barak Valley. In a press conference on July 24, he had alleged that large-scale illegal encroachments were taking place in the reserved forest areas of Sribhumi, especially Pataria and Dohalya. Paul had claimed that these settlements were part of a conspiracy to “change the demographic structure” of the area. He had said that the government will not give any leniency and strict action will be taken against the encroachers. The recent statement of Chief Minister Sarma has further strengthened this plan, increasing the possibility of large-scale action in the coming days.
