No Evictions in Barduar Tea Estate Amid Protests, Asserts Assam CM
Clarification on Land Acquisition in Palasbari
Guwahati, June 9: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has emphasized that there have been no government-led evictions in the Barduar Tea Estate vicinity near Palasbari, despite rising protests concerning the proposed satellite township initiative.
During a special session of the Assembly on Monday, Sarma stated that the government has not acquired any land for the township project.
He explained that following significant infrastructure developments such as the Palasbari-Sualkuchi Bridge and the expansion of Guwahati Airport, the government intends to establish Palasbari as a satellite township.
“We are not purchasing land in Palasbari. Our focus is solely on creating a master plan for the township. The government will not construct any buildings; instead, we will prioritize essential infrastructure and services,” Sarma clarified.
He mentioned that during an election campaign in the Rabha Hasong area, he suggested that the government might consider acquiring land from the Barduar Tea Estate, where tribal communities reside, and issue land pattas to the residents.
“If there is land available beyond the provisions of the land policy, it could be utilized for government-related activities. However, protests have erupted despite no evictions taking place,” he remarked.
Sarma accused a faction of the Congress party of instigating the protests for political advantage. “I welcome the protests, but consistency is essential. If Congress genuinely supports tribal rights, they should advocate for all tribal areas in Goalpara, not just selectively,” he urged, calling on the Opposition to refrain from perceived double standards.
He reiterated that any evictions would only target illegal settlers, stating, “We are not aiming to displace genuine tribal inhabitants. Our goal is to assist them. I even sought to initiate discussions with the residents of the Baghbar forest area, but Congress is steering them towards legal disputes instead of dialogue,” he added.
In response, Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia accused the BJP-led state government of manipulating land ownership regulations.
“Land leases expire after 99 years. Post that, the government can take control without purchasing it. This is how the BJP has acquired vast tracts of land for power plants,” Saikia alleged.
Meanwhile, Akhil Gogoi, leader of the Raijor Dal, called on the Chief Minister to issue land pattas to the residents. “The community is open to discussions. However, if the issue escalates to court, resolution will be out of our hands,” Sarma concluded.