Protests Erupt in Kokrajhar Over Land Acquisition for Adani Thermal Power Project

Protests in Kokrajhar's Parbatjhora Area

Kokrajhar, June 16: Protests have intensified in the Parbatjhora region of Kokrajhar regarding the proposed transfer of 600 bighas of land to the Adani Group for a thermal power initiative. In response, Pramod Boro, Chief of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), assured on Monday that no land would be taken without the owners' consent.

This assurance came after a high-level meeting held at the BTC Secretariat, which included key figures such as Dipen Boro, President of the All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU), along with the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of Kokrajhar, and senior representatives from APDCL and the Adani Group.

"We thoroughly reviewed the situation today. The Circle Officer presented the details, and I want to emphasize that no land will be acquired without agreement. We also considered the potential environmental consequences of the project," stated Pramod Boro.

Boro underscored the importance of this project, noting that such a significant industrial venture has never been established in Bodoland before. The anticipated investment ranges from Rs. 18,000 to Rs. 20,000 crore, which is expected to create lasting job opportunities for 8,000 to 10,000 local youths.

"While we recognize the need for this industry, it should not come at the expense of people's land. Our aim is to achieve development without displacing anyone. We believe this project will not adversely affect local communities," he added.

Boro also invited village protection committees to engage in discussions. "I encourage the village protection committees to talk with us. We are open to discussions at their convenience," he remarked.

In agreement, ABSU President Boro expressed satisfaction with the discussions held on land acquisition. "We oppose any form of forced land acquisition or eviction. Following today’s talks, we are reassured that the project will not displace local residents."

Previously, on June 15, protests against the land deal with the Adani Group in Basabari, Parbatjhora, marked their fourth day.

The movement has gained traction from various farmers' organizations and political groups, including the Krishak Mukti Sangram Parishad and the Assam State Committee of the Trinamool Congress (TMC).

With minimal police or administrative presence, local farmers continue their sit-in protests under trees, pledging to remain until the land transfer decision is revoked.