Tension grips Assam's Margherita over alleged indigenous land encroachment

Tension has escalated in Machegaon under the 83rd Margherita Legislative Assembly constituency in Assam’s Tinsukia district following serious allegations of indigenous land grabbing and encroachment.

 

Local residents and members of the All Assam Mech Kachari Student Union have accused a Margherita resident identified as Chandrabhan Gupta of allegedly fraudulently acquiring land belonging to indigenous tribal families in the area.

 

According to the allegations, the land of two indigenous residents, Ghatu Keot and Kalia Keot, was allegedly purchased through deceit and manipulation.

 

Locals further alleged that a house constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) for the indigenous families was also taken over fraudulently.

 

The allegations state that Chandrabhan Gupta has constructed a large warehouse in the residential locality, triggering strong resentment among local indigenous communities.

 

The issue has sparked protests and anger in Machegaon, with the All Assam Mech Kachari Student Union warning that it will not tolerate any form of land grabbing involving indigenous people.

 

The student body reportedly warned that if the alleged encroachment attempts are not stopped immediately, they may bar the accused from entering the locality.

 

The organisation also questioned how alleged encroachment on indigenous land and government scheme housing could occur without the knowledge of the Margherita Co-District administration.

 

The incident has raised concerns over land protection and administrative oversight in the region, while residents are demanding immediate intervention and a fair investigation into the allegations.