Assam CM Clarifies Eco-Sensitive Zone Remarks Amid Kaziranga Controversy

Dispur, India Aug 27, 2026 ALN: Amid the controversy over the proposed reduction of the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around Kaziranga National Park, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has clarified that his earlier reference to a 1-km ESZ was specifically in the context of Bokakhat.

Speaking at a press briefing in New Delhi on Wednesday, Sarma stated that different parts of the Kaziranga landscape would require different approaches to the extent of an ESZ, depending on factors such as wildlife movement and the presence of the Brahmaputra.

“When I said I would create an Eco-Sensitive Zone, I said Bokakhat because there it does not need more than 1 km. But if you see Karbi Anglong, where there is elephant movement, then it might need 10 km. My answer was in the context of Bokakhat,” he explained.

Sarma pointed out that there is currently no notified ESZ around Kaziranga and that the Centre has urged Assam to create one. The concept of Eco-Sensitive Zones was introduced to provide a buffer around protected areas, allowing for the conservation of biodiversity while also permitting sustainable development. These zones are intended to regulate activities that could impact the flora and fauna of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, ensuring that ecological balance is maintained.

Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, among other wildlife species. The park covers roughly 430 square kilometers and is located in the northeastern state of Assam, along the banks of the Brahmaputra River. The biodiversity of the area, which includes grasslands, wetlands, and forests, is critical not only for the wildlife but also for the local communities that depend on these ecosystems.

The Chief Minister elaborated that Kaziranga extends well beyond the better-known Kohora area, covering parts of Biswanath, Gohpur, Kaliabor, Karbi Anglong, and almost Bokakhat. This geographical diversity necessitates a tailored approach to determining the boundaries of the ESZ, as different regions may have varying ecological needs and pressures.

“Every kilometre is different,” he said, adding that areas with elephant movement could require a wider zone, while areas along the Brahmaputra may not need the same extent. This nuanced understanding is essential for effective wildlife management and habitat preservation, particularly in regions where human-wildlife conflict is prevalent.

The Chief Minister emphasized that the ESZ would be determined through an expert-led process. Once an expert committee prepares the proposal, it would be sent to the Government of India, after which the Wildlife Institute of India in Dehradun would examine it. This step is crucial, as it ensures that the proposed ESZ is based on scientific research and ecological assessments rather than political considerations.

“The proposal would then be discussed by the National Board for Wildlife and conservationists before approval,” he noted. This multi-tiered review process is designed to engage various stakeholders, including conservationists, local communities, and government agencies, ensuring that the final decision reflects a consensus on the best path forward for both wildlife conservation and local development.

Sarma mentioned that Assam currently has around four to five notified ESZs, with the latest one around Deepor Beel, a significant wetland area that supports diverse birdlife and plays a vital role in the local ecosystem. The establishment of these zones has been a critical step in balancing developmental needs with environmental conservation in Assam.

He also accused certain sections of spreading misinformation about the issue, stating that such discussions could create fear among residents unfamiliar with the process of determining an ESZ. Misinformation can lead to public anxiety and resistance to conservation efforts, making it imperative for the government to communicate transparently about the objectives and benefits of establishing an ESZ.

Additionally, Sarma targeted Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi’s family over what he alleged was the party’s failure to protect Kaziranga during its tenure in government. His remarks highlight the ongoing political tensions in Assam, where environmental issues often intersect with political rivalries.

“If there are no rhinos, will there be Kaziranga? If Gaurav Gogoi’s father had remained Chief Minister for five years, there would not have been a single rhino left in Kaziranga. And if there are no rhinos, where is the need for an ESZ? Congress actually needs to apologise to the people for not protecting the national park,” he asserted. This statement underscores the high stakes involved in wildlife conservation, as the survival of iconic species like the one-horned rhinoceros is tied to the political and environmental policies enacted by successive governments.

The controversy surrounding the ESZ around Kaziranga is emblematic of broader challenges faced in wildlife conservation in India. As human populations expand and development pressures increase, the need to balance ecological integrity with economic growth becomes ever more critical. The decisions made regarding the ESZ will have lasting implications not only for the wildlife of Kaziranga but also for the livelihoods of the local communities who coexist with these natural resources.

In conclusion, the clarification by Chief Minister Sarma regarding the Eco-Sensitive Zone around Kaziranga reflects the complexities involved in environmental governance in Assam. As the government moves forward with the process of establishing an ESZ, it will be essential to engage with all stakeholders, ensuring that both conservation goals and community needs are addressed in a manner that fosters sustainable development and protects the rich biodiversity of the region.