Kohima, July 22: The Nagaland government has issued a statewide alert ahead of a major eviction drive planned by the Assam government in Uriamghat, a sensitive area along the interstate border in Golaghat district. The move comes amid fears of a possible influx of displaced individuals into Nagaland following the eviction of alleged illegal settlers from forest lands.
In an advisory released on Tuesday, Nagaland directed all Deputy Commissioners to remain vigilant and monitor any unusual movement across the border. “In view of the eviction drive against illegal immigrants undertaken by the Government of Assam, there is apprehension that some displaced individuals may attempt to cross into our State,” the advisory stated.
The directive underscores the need to maintain law and order, as well as protect the state’s demographic balance. Authorities emphasized that this proactive measure is essential in safeguarding Nagaland’s territorial and administrative integrity.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had earlier alleged that over 3,000 bighas of forest land in Uriamghat had been encroached upon over the past eight years. “Each person here has grabbed 300 to 500 bighas. The dense sal and segun forests have been cleared and turned into plantations,” Sarma said, citing drone surveillance footage.
He further claimed that the area had evolved into a hub for illegal activities, including narcotics smuggling and unregulated mining.
