The eviction, carried out in Santoshpur, Charuabakhra, and Chirakuta, has left an estimated 20,000 people homeless. The operation, conducted under heavy security, saw bulldozers razing structures—some decades old—while several residents dismantled their homes voluntarily ahead of the demolition.
Authorities said the drive is part of a broader initiative to transfer land to the Adani Group for industrial development. The government has promised a one-time financial aid of ₹50,000 to each evicted family. Landless families are being considered for rehabilitation at Boyjer-Alga under the jurisdiction of the Athani Revenue Circle.
Protests broke out at multiple eviction sites, with angry locals blocking roads and clashing with police. Superintendent of Police Leena Doley rushed to the spot and took charge to contain the situation.
Independent MLA Akhil Gogoi, who attempted to visit the site, was detained by police at Chapar police station. Officials said his presence heightened tensions, prompting his transfer to a neighbouring district.
Despite the administration’s assurances, sporadic demonstrations continued throughout the day. Displaced residents demanded proper rehabilitation and adequate compensation.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had earlier announced a large-scale land clearance drive in Dhubri and Goalpara districts, aimed at removing "illegal encroachments" and reclaiming public and forest land. On Monday, Sarma said the move was necessary to "protect Assam’s land from illegal migrants" and safeguard the rights of indigenous communities.
District officials confirmed that eviction notices were served in advance and that all legal procedures were followed. In Dhubri alone, between 1,200 and 1,400 families from three revenue villages are being evicted. Another major eviction operation is planned later this week in Goalpara, which is expected to displace around 1,100 families and reclaim over 1,000 bighas of forest land.