An eviction drive in Assam’s Dhubri district turned violent on Tuesday as authorities attempted to clear 3,000 bighas of land across three villages—Charuwa Bakra, Chirakuta, and Santoshpur—for an Adani Group thermal power project. Locals protested with stones and sticks, leading to clashes with police, who resorted to lathi charge under SSP Leena Doley’s supervision. Protestors damaged machinery, and the demolition of a mosque in Santoshpur further intensified tensions.
The land, currently home to 1,200–1,400 families, was allocated to APDCL. Many evictees accused the BJP government of targeting the poor. Raijor Dal chief Akhil Gogoi, who tried to visit the site, was detained after peacefully addressing residents. Gogoi called the drive illegal, citing stay orders from Gauhati High Court. Officials claimed that Rs 50,000 compensation was offered and 300 bighas in Baizar Alga were allotted for temporary rehabilitation. Patta holders will receive compensation through legal acquisition.
