The Assam government on 25 November introduced new legislation in the state assembly aimed at creating a dedicated authority to protect and regulate the state’s Vaishnavite monasteries, or satras. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Keshab Mahanta presented the Assam Satra Preservation and Development Commission Bill, 2025, noting that several satras continue to face challenges such as encroachment, irregular land records and weak administrative coordination, all of which hamper their lawful management and long-term preservation.
Mahanta told the House that the proposed commission would operate as a quasi-judicial body with specialised powers to safeguard, oversee and manage satra lands and institutions. It would also act as an appellate authority for orders issued by district commissioners and undertake surveys, as well as suo motu inquiries, into cases of encroachment. The minister added that the body would be responsible for recommending measures to conserve heritage structures and artefacts associated with the satra tradition.
The Bill proposes granting the commission powers comparable to those of a civil court, ensuring exclusive jurisdiction over matters assigned to it. Officials would be appointed on deputation in order to prevent the creation of a permanent financial burden on the state. The government would also retain the authority to issue policy directives, expand the commission’s responsibilities and protect actions carried out in good faith, while keeping limited powers to resolve administrative or implementation-related issues.
According to Mahanta, the legislation seeks to provide a structured and legally sound framework for the protection of Assam’s Vaishnavite heritage. He said the commission would help prevent encroachment, curb misuse of satra lands and support culturally sensitive development in the broader public interest.
