Guwahati: In a heated budget session of the assembly, tensions flared in the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) as controversial plans for evictions from designated Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) and Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) areas were unveiled. The issue took centre stage, sparking debate and raising concerns about the fate of thousands of residents.
Congress leader Debabrata Saikia drew attention to a news report titled “Karbi Autonomous Council eviction notice, sacking of 10 government Gaon Burahs who have been allowed to live on government land in Kheroni.”
Saikia addressed the contentious eviction notices issued to several individuals, including government-appointed Gaon Burahs, during the assembly session.
According to Saikia, the eviction notices, particularly targeting individuals in Kheroni village, have affected approximately 10,000 people. Many residents, supported by certificates proving residency since 1940 and inclusion in the National Register of Citizens (NRC), now face an uncertain future as they are asked to vacate the land they have called home for decades.
The situation escalated further as conflicting statements emerged from government officials. Last year, both Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa and Tuliram Ronghang, the Chief Executive Member of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council, had assured residents that there would be no evictions. However, recent developments contradicted these promises, leaving residents disillusioned and anxious about their fate.
In response to mounting criticism, Assam Minister Jogen Mohan defended the eviction plans, citing historical precedents dating back to 1933 when the Professional Grazing Reserve was established. Mohan highlighted alleged illegal settlements and the suspension of Gaon Burahs for negligence of duties as justifications for the evictions.
The eviction plans have ignited a broader debate concerning the constitutional rights of citizens, particularly Article 14 (Right to Equality before the law), Article 15 (Right against discrimination), and Article 19 (Right to settle anywhere in India). Critics argue that while the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution grants special provisions to autonomous regions, the fundamental rights of citizens should not be compromised.
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