Guwahati: Assam Minister Pijush Hazarika on Friday said that the state government has intensified its crackdown on illegal encroachments across the state, with a particular focus on sensitive zones, including forest and hill areas in Guwahati city.
Citing recent developments, the minister highlighted the case of Adingiri Hill, where encroachers have allegedly gone so far as to rename the area ‘Kudratpur’, raising concerns over what he termed as “an attack on cultural identity.” “This is not just about land. This is about intention,” Hazarika asserted during a press briefing. “When people start renaming places they have encroached upon, it shows a deliberate attempt to change the identity of that place. We will not allow this.”
He emphasized that the eviction drive is not limited to rural or remote areas but is being implemented even within Guwahati city limits, to ensure uniform enforcement. Hazarika also warned about rapid demographic shifts resulting from systematic encroachments, which he said threaten Assam’s heritage and long-term stability. “We have said again and again: this is not merely a land issue. This is about protecting our culture, our identity, and our roots,” he said, reiterating the state’s commitment to preserving Assam’s legacy. The minister added that eviction notices have already been served to illegal occupants, and all legal procedures are being followed. He assured that the government is acting firmly under the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and that the eviction drive will continue in a phased, lawful manner.
“Our fight will continue. We are committed to protecting the land, culture, and future of Assam,” Hazarika concluded. The remarks come amid heightened political and social attention to land rights, encroachments, and identity concerns across Assam, particularly in ecologically and culturally significant areas.