Mass Protest in Guwahati Demands Unconditional Release of Land Rights Activist Pranab Doley

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: A mass protest was staged at Chachal here on Saturday demanding the unconditional release of land rights activist Pranab Doley and withdrawal of the National Security Act (NSA) invoked against him.

The demonstration was organised by the Bhumi Adhikar Joutha Sangram Samiti (BAJSS), which alleged that the use of the NSA was aimed at suppressing land rights movements and intimidating indigenous communities opposing land acquisition.

BAJSS convenor Subrata Talukdar said the protesters had two demands — Doley’s unconditional release and withdrawal of the NSA imposed against him. He alleged that indigenous communities in Karbi Anglong, Dima Hasao, Rabha Hasong and Tiwa areas faced threats to their land rights due to government policies favouring corporate interests.

Talukdar also criticised the proposed reduction of the eco-sensitive zone around Kaziranga National Park from 10 km to 1 km, alleging that it could facilitate construction activities in ecologically sensitive areas.

Raijor Dal president and Sibsagar MLA Akhil Gogoi alleged that invoking the NSA against Doley was intended to weaken the land rights movement and create fear among activists.

Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) president Lurinjyoti Gogoi also criticised the government’s action, describing the use of stringent laws against land rights activists as an attack on democratic rights.

Congress, AJP, Raijor Dal and Autonomous State Demand Committee leaders and representatives, along with members of various land rights organisations and communities from Kaziranga, Karbi Anglong, Dima Hasao, Rabha Hasong, BTR and Tiwa areas, participated in the protest.

The protesters resolved to continue their agitation until their demands were met.

Also Read: Assam: Pranab Doley re-arrested under NSA; four co-accused released on bail