Guwahati: A coalition of opposition leaders and civil society groups took to the streets in Guwahati on Saturday, demanding the release of land rights activist Pranab Doley and opposing his detention under the National Security Act (NSA).
The demonstration, held at Chachal, was organised by the Bhumi Adhikar Joutha Sangram Samiti (BAJSS). Protesters alleged that the stringent law was being used to discourage land rights campaigns and silence voices representing indigenous communities.
BAJSS convenor Subrata Talukdar said the movement would continue until Doley was released without conditions and the NSA action against him was withdrawn. He questioned the use of a national security law against a person involved in raising land-related concerns.
The protest also brought wider land and development issues into focus. Speakers alleged that indigenous land in areas such as Karbi Anglong, Dima Hasao, Rabha Hasong and Tiwa regions was increasingly vulnerable to acquisition and large-scale commercial projects.
The proposed changes to the eco-sensitive zone around Kaziranga National Park also came under criticism. Protest leaders expressed apprehension that reducing the protected zone could open the door to increased construction and commercial activity around the national park.
Raijor Dal president and Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi accused the government of attempting to weaken the land rights movement by detaining its activists. He said the use of the NSA could create fear among protesters and disrupt organised movements.
AJP president Lurinjyoti Gogoi also condemned the detention, arguing that citizens have the democratic and constitutional right to protest over land and other public issues. He further opposed the proposed Satellite Township Bill, alleging that it could adversely affect the interests of indigenous communities.
Representatives of Congress, AJP, Raijor Dal and ASDC joined the protest along with various land rights groups and community representatives from several parts of Assam.
The protesters said they would intensify their campaign if the government failed to address their demands.