The Assam government is preparing to initiate a significant eviction drive in the state's southern Barak Valley, marking a geographical expansion of its campaign against alleged illegal encroachments on forest land. Following a series of similar operations in the Brahmaputra Valley, the administration has now set its sights on the Gharmura reserve forest located in Hailakandi district.
Operation Details and Preparatory Measures
Officials have confirmed that the eviction operation is scheduled to commence on January 16. The action will specifically target the Damcherra area within the Gharmura reserve forest. In a major move, the district administration has already served formal notices to approximately 522 families residing in the area, directing them to vacate the forest land they are alleged to have encroached upon.
To ensure widespread awareness and avoid any claims of lack of information, the administration and forest department have undertaken extensive public outreach. This has included putting up banners and conducting announcements using microphone systems (miking) across the affected zones, clearly informing residents of the impending government action.
A Contrast to Brahmaputra Valley Resistance
The current situation in Hailakandi presents a stark contrast to the volatile scenes witnessed during recent eviction drives in parts of the Brahmaputra Valley, which were often met with strong resistance and public protests. In the Barak Valley, the atmosphere is reported to be notably calm in the lead-up to the operation.
In a significant development, many families have reportedly begun pre-emptive actions even before the official start date. Several households have started dismantling their own homes, packing their belongings, and moving out of the forest area voluntarily. This proactive response suggests a different dynamic compared to the confrontations seen elsewhere in the state.
The Broader Context and Implications
This planned drive underscores the Assam government's continued focus on reclaiming protected forest lands from what it deems illegal occupation. The shift of operations from the Brahmaputra to the Barak Valley indicates a statewide approach to the issue of forest encroachment. The outcome of this drive in Hailakandi, given the current cooperative response from a section of residents, will be closely watched as a potential model for future actions. It raises critical questions about rehabilitation, the legal process behind the evictions, and the long-term plan for the cleared forest areas.
