Land Title Certificates Distributed to Indigenous Families
Guwahati, Nov 11: In celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada, which runs from November 1 to 15, Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma distributed land title certificates to 4,673 tribal families in Chaygaon, located in the Kamrup district. This initiative is part of the Forest Rights Act, 2006.
After the distribution ceremony, the Chief Minister emphasized the government’s dedication to ensuring land ownership for tribal communities residing on forest land.
“Today, approximately 4,500 tribal individuals linked with the Forest Rights Committee have received land rights. We are celebrating the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda from November 1 to 15, and in this spirit, we have granted land rights to tribal community members. This is a significant achievement for us, and I extend my sincere gratitude and best wishes to all,” Sarma stated.
This initiative comes at a time of increased political activity regarding the demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status by six communities, as the 2026 Assembly elections approach.
When questioned about the state’s report on the ST status demand, the Chief Minister responded, “Please wait until November 25; we will provide a report on this matter.”
Sarma also addressed inquiries regarding the government’s ongoing eviction efforts against alleged encroachments on forest and government land.
Taking a firm stance, he reiterated the state’s commitment to a “zero-tolerance policy towards illegal occupation.”
“Let them go wherever they wish. When we evict them from their homes, why should we keep track of where they go? They can return to wherever they came from. We will continue to remove them, whether in the forest or the city,” he asserted.
The Chief Minister further stated that while the government remains steadfast, “those who engage in encroachment will eventually tire of rebuilding their homes, while the administration will not tire of enforcing the law.”
“If they originated from Bangladesh, they will return there. I will facilitate their exit and restrict their entry,” Sarma declared.
Regarding the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council’s request for inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, Sarma mentioned that discussions with the Center are ongoing.
“Negotiations are in progress. It’s not that we have made significant progress, but talks are happening. The Center will meet with the Rabha body in December. People protest to be heard, and we listen. We just need to find a solution,” he added.
Tuesday’s event in Chaygaon was part of a broader outreach initiative during Assam’s Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada, a fortnight dedicated to celebrating tribal pride and honoring the legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda through efforts that promote empowerment and land security for the state’s indigenous communities.
