Assam: Encroachment crisis threatens historic Shamshan Kali Temple in Dhubri

Alleged encroachment threat looms large over the historic Shamshan Kali Temple and its adjoining crematorium at Folimari Part-II along the Dhubri–Kochugaon road, triggering widespread anger and anxiety among thousands of residents who depend on the site for religious and funeral rites.

The temple complex, regarded as a sacred and communal lifeline for more than 10,000 people from Jhagrarapar, Tiamari and Folimari Part-II villages, is allegedly being systematically taken over through illegal constructions. Locals fear that continued inaction could permanently damage the sanctity and functionality of one of the region’s most important public religious spaces.

According to information provided by the temple committee and village representatives, nearly 10 bighas of land registered under Mandir Dag Numbers 22 and 23 have reportedly fallen under encroachment. The most serious violation is said to have occurred around 300 metres north of the main temple premises, where about three bighas of land have allegedly been occupied for the construction of private residential houses.

Devotees and members of the temple management committee warned that further loss of land would directly impact the functioning of the public crematorium, depriving the community of adequate space to perform last rites and infringing upon long-standing religious and cultural practices.

The alleged encroachment has intensified resentment over what villagers describe as administrative apathy. Representatives of the three affected villages have jointly demanded the immediate demolition of all illegal structures and the restoration of the entire encroached land to the temple authorities.

“This is not merely a dispute over land; it concerns the dignity of our sacred place and the right to perform the final rites of our loved ones,” said a local resident, urging the district administration to act swiftly before the temple’s identity and purpose are irreversibly compromised.

With tensions continuing to rise in the Folimari Part-II area, villagers have cautioned that they will launch stronger protests if authorities fail to evict the encroachers and safeguard the historic Shamshan Kali Temple and crematorium.