Assam: Tribal bodies demand action over alleged Maoist-linked forest encroachment in BTR

The Bodoland Janajati Suraksha Manch (BJSM) and the All Assam Tribal Students’ Union (AATSU) have urged the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) and the Assam government to take strict action over alleged Maoist links to forest encroachment in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).

The two organisations submitted a memorandum to Suman Mohapatra, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Council Head of Department (CHD), Forest Department, BTC, in Kokrajhar on Monday. The memorandum was handed over by a delegation led by BJSM president Daoraodekhreb Narzary.

After submitting the memorandum, Narzary expressed concern over what the organisations described as growing Maoist influence in the region. He alleged that certain individuals involved in forest land encroachment were operating under Maoist ideology and posed a threat to peace and stability.

He further claimed that some encroachers were attempting to create unrest in BTR, citing recent incidents in Runikhata and parts of Kokrajhar. The organisations appealed to BTC authorities and security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and identify those responsible.

They also called for firm measures to protect forest land and safeguard the rights of indigenous communities.

Speaking to the media, Mohapatra acknowledged the seriousness of the issue and said large-scale encroachment had taken place in forest areas, particularly in the newly declared Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park. He said hundreds of bighas of forest land had allegedly been encroached upon and assured that an investigation was underway.

Mohapatra added that an eviction drive would be launched soon.