Goalpara: In a massive operation against alleged encroachment, the Goalpara district administration on Sunday launched an extensive eviction drive at Dahikata, deploying over 50 excavators to clear forest land. The operation aims to free around 1,140 bighas spread across five blocks in the region.
According to officials, nearly 580 families had settled illegally on the land, but about 70 percent vacated ahead of the eviction following notices issued 15 days earlier. “The eviction drive is being carried out peacefully under strict security measures,” said Goalpara Deputy Commissioner Prodip Timung.
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A heavy police presence, including Black Commandos and CRPF personnel, ensured law and order as the operation began at 7 a.m. Special Chief Secretary of the Forest Department, M.K. Yadava, stated that the eviction aims to reduce human-elephant conflict. “Once the encroached land is cleared, elephants will return to their habitat. Plans are also underway to install protective fencing,” he said.
Some settlers, however, protested the move, alleging it was politically motivated and conducted on revenue land to divert public attention from other state issues. Officials denied the claim, asserting the drive followed a High Court order and due process.
Yadava further revealed that under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s leadership, over 1.03 lakh bighas of encroached forest land have been cleared across Assam in the last four years.
