Guwahati: The Gauhati High Court has directed the Assam government to immediately rehabilitate and provide compensation to families evicted from three locations in the state — Hasila Beel in Goalpara, Bongara in Kamrup and Kachua in Nagaon.
A division bench led by Justice Devashis Baruah stressed the need for immediate measures to ensure the rehabilitation and compensation of the affected families. The court has also directed the state government to submit an affidavit on the matter before December 16.
Over the past few years, eviction drives have been carried out in several parts of Assam to clear alleged encroachments on government land, forest areas and other protected areas. These operations have raised concerns over the displacement of families, loss of shelter and disruption of livelihoods.
The situation of families affected by the eviction drives in Hasila Beel, Bongara and Kachua has brought the issue of rehabilitation and compensation into focus. Ensuring access to shelter, food, drinking water, healthcare and livelihood opportunities remains a major concern for affected households.
The legality of an eviction and the government's responsibilities towards affected families after the operation are separate issues. While the administration has the authority to clear encroached land in accordance with the law, it is also important to follow due legal procedures and address the basic needs of displaced people.
Following the High Court's latest direction, attention is now on the steps the Assam government will take to rehabilitate the affected families and provide compensation.
