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Assam CM Sarma Vows Zero Tolerance on Illegal Encroachment, Crime Networks

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has declared a strict zero-tolerance policy against illegal encroachment on government and forest land. He stated that eviction drives aim not only to reclaim land but also to dismantle networks of crime that flourished under previous regimes. The government emphasizes these actions are crucial for environmental protection, law and order, and public safety. Officials assert that operations follow legal procedures, with plans to rehabilitate genuine indigenous landless families.

Key Points: Assam's Zero Tolerance Policy on Illegal Land Encroachment

  • Zero tolerance on encroachment
  • Reclaiming government & forest land
  • Dismantling crime networks
  • Ensuring environmental security
  • Rehabilitation for indigenous families
2 min read

Assam govt pursuing zero tolerance policy against illegal encroachment: CM Sarma

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma asserts strict eviction drives to reclaim land, dismantle crime networks, and ensure environmental security.

"Not only are we evicting them, but we are finishing off avenues of crime. - Himanta Biswa Sarma"

Guwahati, Feb 13

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday asserted that the state government is pursuing a strict "zero tolerance" policy against illegal encroachment, stating that eviction drives are not only aimed at reclaiming government and forest land but also at dismantling networks of crime that had flourished under previous regimes.

In a post on X, the Chief Minister said that for a long period, illegal encroachers operated with complete immunity, converting protected forest areas into hubs of unlawful activities.

He maintained that such encroachments had posed a serious threat to Assam's environmental security, law and order, and overall development.

"For long, illegal encroachers operated with immunity, turning forests into a den for illegal activities. But our government has a zero tolerance policy towards encroachers," Sarma said in his post, underlining that the present administration is determined to reverse years of neglect and inaction.

The Chief Minister emphasised that the eviction drives being carried out across several districts are part of a larger strategy to ensure a "Surakshit Assam" (Safe Assam).

According to him, reclaiming encroached land is also crucial for protecting forests, preserving biodiversity, and restoring ecological balance in the state.

He further stated that the government is not limiting its actions to eviction alone.

"Not only are we evicting them, but we are finishing off avenues of crime," Sarma said, adding that illegal settlements had often been linked to organised crime, smuggling, and other unlawful activities that undermined public safety.

Over the past few months, the Assam government has intensified eviction operations in forest reserves and government land, reclaiming hundreds of hectares.

The drives, though politically contentious, have been defended by the state government as necessary for enforcing the rule of law and ensuring equitable use of public resources.

Officials have reiterated that all actions are being carried out in accordance with legal procedures, with prior notices issued to encroachers. The government has also maintained that genuine indigenous landless families will be rehabilitated through lawful means.

The Chief Minister concluded by reaffirming his government's commitment to strong governance, environmental protection, and public safety, asserting that Assam is moving decisively towards a future marked by lawfulness, security, and sustainable development.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
While protecting land is important, I hope the rehabilitation promise for genuine indigenous families is followed through properly. Eviction without a humane plan just creates more problems. The government must be transparent.
A
Aman W
This was long overdue. You can't have smuggling and crime networks operating freely in protected areas. A 'Surakshit Assam' needs such strong steps. Hope they keep it up without any political bias.
S
Sarah B
As someone who loves Assam's wildlife, I'm glad to hear this. Preserving biodiversity is critical. But the execution matters—it should be lawful and fair. The focus on dismantling crime networks is a smart angle.
K
Karthik V
Good move, but let's not forget the past regimes he's blaming allowed this to happen. Everyone needs to be accountable. Hope this isn't just for headlines and actually leads to sustainable development for the state.
N
Nisha Z
Protecting forests is our duty. These encroachments harm everyone in the long run. The government must ensure the reclaimed land is used properly for the people and not handed over to corporates later. Jai Assam!

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