Assam: Nagaon grazing reserve allegedly turned into settlement; locals demand eviction of 120 families

Allegations of large-scale encroachment on government grazing reserve land have resurfaced in Assam's Nagaon district, with local residents claiming that around 120 families, whom they identify as Miya Muslims, have settled on protected land in the Samaguri revenue circle.

 

According to residents of Missa Gaon, government grazing reserve plots under Dag No. 98, measuring 21 bigha and 10 lessa, and Dag No. 751, measuring 61 bigha and 13 lessa, have allegedly been occupied over the years.

 

Locals claim that the occupied land in the Kichamati area of Missa Gaon has gradually developed into a permanent settlement. Houses, ponds, shops, a mosque and other structures have reportedly been built on the land, transforming the area into a village-like habitation.

 

Residents allege that encroachment began during the previous Congress government and continued despite notices reportedly issued by the administration for eviction. They claim that no major eviction drive was conducted, allowing the settlement to expand over time.

 

The issue has once again come into focus amid the state government's ongoing drive against encroachments on government and protected lands. Local residents have urged Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the district administration to initiate an eviction drive and restore the grazing reserve.

 

Officials have not issued any statement on the allegations so far.