Assam's Tea Garden Workers to Receive Land Rights Soon
New Land Rights for Tea Garden Workers in Assam
Jorhat, July 10: Workers in Assam's tea gardens are on the verge of obtaining long-awaited land rights as the state government gears up to enforce a new law by October or November this year.
During a review meeting at the Jorhat Circuit House on Wednesday night, Labor Welfare and Tea Tribes & Adivasi Welfare Minister Rupesh Gowala shared this significant update.
“For more than 200 years, tea garden workers have occupied these lands without any legal recognition. We are committed to rectifying this situation. The new legislation will guarantee that tea workers living on estate lands receive their rightful land deeds,” Minister Gowala stated, noting that tea workers residing on government or ceiling lands can apply for pattas under the Basundhara scheme.
In the meeting, which addressed labor welfare, tea tribes, indigenous communities, and prison department issues, the Minister emphasized the necessity of effectively implementing existing schemes and laws.
“While various schemes have been introduced for tea tribes, successful execution is crucial. Our assessments in Jorhat, Sivasagar, and Charaideo have helped us pinpoint deficiencies and devise solutions,” he remarked.
Addressing economic concerns, the minister indicated a positive outlook regarding the long-standing demand for increased wages. He mentioned that Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has proposed a daily wage of Rs 250 for tea garden workers, which will be enacted following final discussions.
On health issues within tea estates, the minister expressed alarm over the rising tuberculosis cases in the area, revealing that Jorhat district has reported nearly 300 cases.
“I have instructed all tea garden managements to hire doctors, pharmacists, and other medical personnel in their hospitals within a month. Failure to comply will result in strict legal action,” Gowala cautioned.
He also promised to enhance medical staffing and mobile crèche facilities in tea gardens, although some initiatives may take longer to implement.
The minister pointed out increasing social challenges such as child marriage and alcohol abuse in tea garden regions.
“I have urged the district administration to enforce strict measures against child marriage and alcohol consumption. It is essential for everyone to unite in combating these social issues. We must be vigilant not only in tea gardens but in all communities,” he stressed.
In addition to welfare initiatives for tea tribes, the minister reviewed the development of the Freedom Movement Park within the historic Jorhat Central Jail and instructed officials to expedite the project. He reassured that special provisions announced by the Chief Minister for tea tribes will soon be put into action.
The meeting included participation from Kaziranga MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, Jorhat MLA Hitendra Nath Goswami, Mariani MLA Rupjyoti Kurmi, the Jorhat district commissioner, senior police officials, labor commissioners, and other senior labor department officials.
Minister Gowala concluded, “Our government is committed to ensuring that tea tribes receive the rights and services they deserve. From land rights to improved health services and minimum wages, these initiatives will pave the way for a brighter future for tea garden communities.”