Atul Bora defends Bokakhat hotel project after Pranab Doley's arrest, says tourism growth needs more hotels

Assam Cabinet Minister Atul Bora on Monday, July 13, defended the state government's decision to develop tourism infrastructure in Bokakhat, saying the sharp rise in tourist arrivals has made the construction of additional hotels a necessity. He also alleged that activist Pranab Doley was attempting to create unnecessary controversy around the project and obstruct development.
 

Speaking to reporters, Bora said Bokakhat has witnessed significant development over the past few years and has emerged as one of Assam's leading tourist destinations.
 

"A lot of development work is underway in Bokakhat. Over the last three years, a large number of tourists from across the country and abroad have been visiting the area. As tourist footfall continues to increase, there is a clear need for more hotels and tourism infrastructure," Bora said.
 

The minister said the government is also developing a Tea Museum in the area to promote tea tourism and create another attraction for visitors. According to him, the museum is expected to further strengthen Bokakhat's tourism potential.
 

Addressing the controversy surrounding the project, Bora said the government had taken steps to rehabilitate all affected tea garden workers and that those who had initially raised concerns had accepted the rehabilitation package offered by the government.
 

"The affected families have been allotted land, and houses are being constructed for them under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). Tea garden workers have also received land ownership pattas. Around 30,000 people have already been given pattas, and the government is preparing to distribute land pattas to another 6.5 lakh beneficiaries," he said.
 

Bora added that the government has implemented several welfare measures for tea garden communities, including the construction of schools, Jagannath Community Centres, roads and other development projects.
 

Referring to the proposed hotel project, the minister said it is planned on around eight bighas of government land, while another eight bighas have been earmarked for the Tea Museum. He said the projects are aimed at supporting the region's growing tourism sector and generating economic opportunities.
 

Targeting Doley, Bora alleged that the activist was trying to mislead people and create obstacles to development.
 

"Pranab Doley has spoken against me and even against the Chief Minister. Winning and losing elections is part of politics, and I have no personal grudge. But development should not be obstructed for political reasons," Bora said.
 

The minister also clarified that police and the civil administration were present at the project site only to maintain law and order during official duties.
 

"The administration is doing its job, while we remain committed to the development of Bokakhat and the welfare of the people," he added.
 

Bora's remarks came a day after Dispur Police detained activist Pranab Doley and brought him to Dispur Police Station for questioning in connection with a case registered at Bokakhat Police Station.
 

Doley, who belongs to Assam's indigenous Mising community, has been leading protests against the proposed construction of luxury hotels near Kaziranga National Park, alleging that the projects could adversely affect the environment and the rights of local communities.
 

Reiterating the government's position, Bora said the state remains committed to tourism-led development while ensuring the welfare of local communities.
 

"Our only objective is the development of Assam and the development of our constituency," he said.