Assam cabinet approves SOP to scrutinise inter-religion land transfers

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the state cabinet has approved a Special Operating Procedure (SOP) to scrutinise applications for land transfer between persons of different religions. 

The move aims to examine multiple aspects, including national security, before granting permission.

Under the SOP, the Special Branch of Assam Police will check for fraudulent or illegal activities, sources of funding, the social impact on the locality, and national security concerns. 

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The procedure will not apply to land transfers between persons of the same religion.

The SOP will also extend to NGOs from outside Assam intending to acquire land for educational or healthcare institutions. 

The CM emphasized that in a sensitive state like Assam, land transfers must be carefully monitored to prevent misuse.