Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has come under sharp criticism from MLA Rasheed Alam as the district administration prepares to launch a large-scale eviction drive targeting illegal encroachments in Goalpara district. The operation, scheduled for November 9 and 10, will focus on clearing about 153 hectares of land across ten reserved forest areas, officials said.
Speaking strongly against the Chief Minister, MLA Rasheed Alam described Himanta Biswa Sarma as “like Ravan, a demon who feeds on the suffering of people.” Alam further stated that the Chief Minister is tormenting ordinary citizens and “out of fear of losing his chair, is speaking nonsense.” The MLA warned that the tears and curses of the families affected by the eviction could bring misfortune upon the Chief Minister. In a particularly pointed remark, Alam added, “The Chief Minister himself says that committing sins causes cancer. Since he is committing such sins, he will inevitably suffer the consequences.”
District Forest Officer Tejas Moriswami said that about 1,685 hectares of forest land are currently under encroachment, with 153 hectares identified for immediate clearance. Over 600 families residing illegally in these forest areas have received eviction notices. Residents living on patta (land lease) lands have been temporarily exempted from the eviction drive, Moriswami added. 
The areas affected by the drive include Dubapara Luptachar, Pakhiura, Beharphuli, Darogar Alga, and 126 No. Uzrir Char. These sites are located on the north-western side of the historic Sri Surya Pahar and south of State Highway 46. Many of the residents have reportedly been living in these forest lands for 25 to 30 years after being displaced earlier due to erosion caused by the Jolajoli River.
