The Gauhati High Court has issued notices to the Assam government regarding rehabilitation, resettlement, and compensation for families evicted from the Bongora–Islampur area on the outskirts of Guwahati. The evictions were carried out on March 14 and 15 in the Kamrup Metropolitan district.
A single-judge bench of Justice Anjan Moni Kalita passed the order on April 6 while hearing a petition filed by 62 affected individuals, bringing the issue into focus within Guwahati’s ongoing urban and land-use debates.
The Gauhati High Court has asked the Assam government to respond to rehabilitation and compensation for families evicted from Bongora-Islampur near Guwahati. The petition, filed by 62 individuals, highlights concerns over the lack of basic facilities following eviction in March.
Petition Highlights Post-Eviction Conditions
According to the petitioners, families displaced from the area are currently living in temporary conditions near locations such as:
- Islampur
- Pachaniapara
They have alleged that they are without access to:
- Drinking water
- Adequate food
- Sanitation facilities
- Medical support
The petition primarily seeks immediate relief and basic amenities.
Court Issues Notice, Hearing After Bihu
The High Court directed that notices be issued to the state government and scheduled the next hearing after the upcoming Bihu festival.
- Case number: W.P.(C) 1954/2026
- Order passed on: April 6
- Advocate Z. Khalid appeared for the petitioners
The court will review the government’s response in the next hearing.
Background: Eviction in Guwahati’s Fringe Areas
The eviction drive was conducted in Bongora–Islampur, located on the outskirts of Guwahati in Kamrup (M) district.
Authorities stated that:
- The settlement was on Tribal Belt and Block land
- Such land is legally reserved for indigenous tribal communities
However, the petitioners claim they had been residing in the area for over 20 years, raising concerns over displacement without rehabilitation.
Why This Matters for Guwahati
The case highlights a recurring issue in Guwahati’s expansion:
- Tension between land protection laws and long-term settlements
- Questions around rehabilitation policies for evicted families
- Urban growth pressures in the fringe areas of the city
It also brings attention to how eviction drives are managed in terms of humanitarian considerations.
What Happens Next
- The Assam government will respond to the High Court notice
- The case will be heard again after Bihu
- The court may decide on interim or long-term relief measures
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were families evicted from Bongora-Islampur?
The eviction was carried out because the settlement was on Tribal Belt and Block land, which is reserved for tribal communities.
What has the High Court directed?
The Gauhati High Court has issued notice to the Assam government to respond to rehabilitation, resettlement, and compensation for the affected families.