Assam: Land grabbing allegations spark protests in Lakhipur against BJP leaders

Tensions flared in the Bolai Khamar circle of Lakhipur under Goalpara district as local residents launched a strong protest against two BJP leaders, alleging forceful acquisition of land traditionally occupied and cultivated by indigenous families.

The demonstration, marked by slogans like “Down with Prakash Kashyap,” “Rajesh Gupta beware,” “No grabbing of Khilanjia land,” and “Outsiders, beware,” was held to denounce the alleged seizure of 38 bighas of land. 

Protesters claim that two BJP-affiliated individuals Rajesh Prasad Gupta and Prakash Kashyap, both reportedly from the Bihari community have taken over these lands, of which 7 bighas were residential properties belonging to eight families, while the remaining 24 bighas were agricultural fields.

According to locals, the land in question was originally held by a former zamindar and has been inhabited and farmed by local residents for decades. The sudden transfer of ownership to Gupta and Kashyap has intensified community outrage. Official records now list the two leaders as legal proprietors of the plots, following a documented purchase from former registered owner Suman Choudhury.

The plots span multiple land parcel numbers, including 144, 243, 244, 288, and 327. Sources claim that prior to final registration, the sale process involved communication between the buyers and Nur Alam, son of Abdul Ali Ahmed. Gupta and Kashyap are said to have acquired the land by adhering to legal procedures and paying the official rates. Despite this, the transaction has stirred controversy, with many residents viewing it as a politically motivated maneuver to undermine Khilanjia rights.

Protesters argue that even if legally executed, the purchase disregards the historical and cultural ownership of the land by indigenous communities. The incident has triggered a larger debate on land rights, identity politics, and the impact of demographic change in Assam.

Authorities are yet to make an official statement regarding the protest or the legality of the transaction. However, local tensions continue to rise, raising concerns of a potential law-and-order situation in the region.