Eviction notices most humane step, will use machines if ignored: Assam CM hits back at minority body

Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has defended the state’s ongoing eviction drives, calling the issuance of notices “the most humane step” in the process. 

Responding to criticism from the All Assam Minority Students' Union (AAMSU), the Chief Minister asserted that if individuals refuse to vacate even after being served notices, the government will be compelled to use machines to clear encroachments.

Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday, June 9, inaugurated the newly constructed Chirang District BJP office at Kajalgaon in Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).

Speaking to the media after the inauguration, the Chief Minister said that apart from Udalguri, BJP district offices have already been established in all other districts within BTR. He assured that within the next one to two months, a party office will also be constructed in Udalguri.

On the issue of candidate selection in BTR, Dr. Sarma clarified that the BJP will give party tickets only to those constituencies where victory is certain, indicating a strategic approach ahead of the elections.

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Addressing the ongoing eviction drive in the Bilasipara-Chapar region of Dhubri district, Dr. Sarma said that 90% of the local population supports the eviction, and asserted that the move would benefit the public in the long run, especially if industries are set up in the cleared areas.

While acknowledging that 10% of the people are opposing the eviction, he emphasised that the operations are being carried out peacefully.

Responding to criticism from All Assam Minority Students' Union (AAMSU), the Chief Minister stated, “There’s nothing more humane than serving eviction notices. But if someone refuses to vacate even after receiving a notice, we’ll be forced to use machines to remove them.”

Reacting sharply to AAMSU’s threat of launching a “militant movement” against the evictions, Dr. Sarma said, “If they opt for a militant movement, we will also respond with a militant solution.”

The Chief Minister's strong remarks come amidst increasing political and social tension around land eviction drives across parts of western Assam.