A major eviction drive was carried out by authorities in Assam's Dhubri district on Monday, leading to the displacement of numerous families. The operation targeted land reportedly earmarked for a significant industrial project.
Bulldozers Roll on Patta Land in Chapar
The drive resumed in the Chapar area, specifically in Charuabakra and Santoshpur, early on Monday morning. Unlike previous anti-encroachment efforts in the same zone that focused on government khas land, this operation directly targeted individuals holding patta (land deed) documents. A heavy contingent of police and paramilitary personnel was deployed to oversee the action.
Official sources within the Dhubri district administration confirmed that approximately 90 families were evicted from nearly 100 bighas of land. Bulldozers were used to clear structures in the area. An official stated that while some patta holders had accepted compensation and relocated earlier, others had opted for a land-for-land exchange. This alternative arrangement was allegedly delayed, leading some families to remain on the property despite receiving prior notices to vacate.
Land Cleared for Adani Thermal Power Project
Officials clarified that the cleared land is intended for infrastructure development linked to the Adani Group's thermal power project. Sources indicated that a substantial portion of land, around 3,500 bighas, has already been handed over to the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) for the venture. The latest eviction is part of this ongoing land acquisition process.
Residents Left in a Dire Situation
Affected residents described the eviction as sudden and have been left in a precarious position. Having legal pattas for the land, they now face homelessness and an uncertain future. The district administration maintains that due process was followed, including the provision of compensation and notices.
The event highlights the complex tensions between industrial development, land rights, and rehabilitation in the region. It marks a significant escalation as it involves evicting legal landowners, not just alleged encroachers, for a large-scale corporate project.
