In one of the largest eviction operations in recent years, the Assam government launched a massive drive in the Dahikata Reserve Forest, Goalpara district, reclaiming over 1,143 bighas of encroached forest land. The operation, which began early morning on Sunday, displaced more than 700 families and is set to continue through November 10.
🔑 Key Highlights
Location: Dahikata Reserve Forest, Goalpara district, Assam
Date: 9–10 November 2025
Scale: 1,143 bighas (approx. 153 hectares) cleared
Families affected: 700+ families displaced
Security deployment: 900+ personnel including police, paramilitary, forest guards, and commandos
Equipment used: 20+ excavators and bulldozers
🏛️ Government’s Stand
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized that the eviction was part of the state’s commitment to “protect and restore every inch of forest land.” Authorities stated that notices had been served in advance, and several families voluntarily dismantled their homes before the demolition began.
👥 Local Reactions
Some residents expressed shock and distress, claiming they had lived in the area for decades.
Opposition leaders criticized the move as “inhumane”, highlighting the humanitarian crisis faced by displaced families.
Heavy security presence ensured that the eviction drive proceeded without major clashes.
🌳 Environmental Context
The Dahikata Reserve Forest spans 1,685 hectares, of which 153 hectares were encroached. Officials argue that clearing encroachments is vital for forest conservation, biodiversity protection, and wildlife safety.
📈 Broader Pattern of Evictions in Assam
This eviction drive is part of a series of operations across Assam in recent years, targeting encroachments in:
Kaziranga National Park buffer zones
Satra lands in Majuli
Wetlands and forest reserves in Darrang, Nagaon, and Hojai
The government has consistently maintained that such drives are necessary to safeguard ecological balance and public land.
