Assam: Massive Eviction Drive in Dhubri, Clears 3,500 Bighas for Mega Power Project
The eviction, which began at dawn under heavy security, saw the deployment of hundreds of police personnel, bulldozers, and JCB machines.
DHUBRI– In a sweeping operation described as Assam’s largest eviction drive, authorities in Dhubri district’s Bilasipara subdivision reclaimed over 3,500 bighas (approximately 470 hectares) of government land allegedly encroached by illegal settlers, on Tuesday.
The operation, aimed at clearing space for a proposed 3,400 MW thermal power project in collaboration with the Adani Group and Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL), affected an estimated 1,200–1,400 families, displacing around 20,000 people across Bilasipara East, Chirakuta, Charuwabakhra, and Santoshpur.
The eviction, which began at dawn under heavy security, saw the deployment of hundreds of police personnel, bulldozers, and JCB machines. Most residents vacated the area voluntarily following prior notices, with some offered temporary rehabilitation at Baizar Alga in Athani circle and compensation of ₹50,000 for eligible families.
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However, tensions escalated in Chapor, where evicted settlers, including women, protested violently, attacking security forces and machinery with stones, bamboo sticks, and iron rods, damaging at least three excavators.
The demolition of a mosque in Santoshpur further fueled unrest, leading to road blockades and protests.
Dhubri Superintendent of Police Leena Doley led a lathi charge to disperse the crowd. Raijor Dal chief and Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi, present at the Chapor site, was detained by police after his presence reportedly incited resistance and slogan-shouting.
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Gogoi’s detention drew sharp criticism from opposition parties, including Congress, and left activists, who accused the BJP-led government of targeting minorities and exacerbating the plight of the poor.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended the operation, emphasizing the need to protect indigenous land rights and signaling that similar drives would continue in Nagaon and Goalpara. “No outsider should be allowed to encroach on Bodoland’s land,” Sarma stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to the ₹40,000 crore power project, which is expected to transform Assam’s energy landscape.
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Local residents expressed anguish, with some claiming inadequate relocation time. The government maintained that due process was followed, with notices served and surveys conducted prior to the eviction.
The violence and displacement have sparked a heated debate, with critics calling for humane rehabilitation measures and supporters of the drive hailing it as a necessary step for development and land reclamation. As Assam braces for further evictions, the situation remains tense, with authorities on high alert to prevent additional unrest.
