Eviction Drive in Goalpara: Residents Express Distress Amid Demolitions

A recent eviction operation in Goalpara has led to the demolition of numerous homes, leaving many residents homeless and distressed. The local administration claims the drive targets illegal encroachments on government land, but affected families argue they have lived there for decades. With insufficient time to prepare and no clear rehabilitation plans announced, the humanitarian fallout is becoming increasingly concerning. Residents are calling for immediate support as they face uncertainty about their future.
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Eviction Drive in Goalpara: Residents Express Distress Amid Demolitions

Major Eviction Operation in Goalpara


Goalpara, June 16: In a significant eviction initiative, approximately 20 excavators and bulldozers arrived at Hasila Beel early Monday morning, demolishing numerous homes as part of an ongoing effort by the local administration.


The demolition commenced at 5 AM under the supervision of Goalpara Deputy Commissioner Khanindra Choudhury, who reported that by midday, around 30% of the targeted area had been addressed.


Choudhury expressed optimism that the operation would conclude by the end of the day.


The purpose of the eviction, according to the Deputy Commissioner, is to eliminate "illegal encroachments" on government property, and the operation proceeded without any resistance from the residents.


"The community has recognized that they were occupying land unlawfully," he stated.


He also mentioned that eviction notices had been issued in 2023, 2024, and most recently on June 14, leading approximately 20-25 families to vacate voluntarily.


Hasila Beel, situated in Goalpara district, reportedly covers around 1,555 bighas and is home to about 667 families, along with five lower primary schools.


While the administration asserted that the eviction was conducted lawfully and peacefully, affected residents expressed profound distress, accusing the authorities of insensitivity and targeting specific communities.


"We have resided here since the 1950s. Many of us are included in the NRC and are indigenous," a local resident remarked, claiming that the government was unfairly targeting a minority group.


Another resident noted that families were given insufficient time to prepare for the eviction. "Notices were issued, but more time should have been allowed. Many of us are daily wage earners. Numerous families have lost homes built with their life savings," they lamented.


Residents also highlighted the disruption caused during an ongoing school examination period, with five lower primary schools reportedly impacted by the demolitions.


Several families who left were unable to retrieve their belongings, locals reported.


While acknowledging the land's government ownership, many evictees have called for immediate support for rehabilitation.


"We understand the land belongs to the government. But where will we go now? We urge the administration to provide us with a place to stay," one resident pleaded.


As the eviction operation progresses, the humanitarian implications are raising concerns, with families left homeless and without clear alternatives.


The district administration has yet to announce any rehabilitation plans.


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