BJSM Demands Verification of Land Occupation in Choraikonsra, Assam

Dispur, India Aug 26, 2026 ALN: The Bodoland Janajati Suraksha Manch (BJSM) on Tuesday submitted a memorandum to the District Commissioner of Chirang, demanding immediate verification of the residential status, land records, and other relevant documents of 56 families allegedly occupying Government Khas land at Choraikonsra under Sidli Revenue Circle. This memorandum was presented in the presence of numerous local youths from the Choraikonsra area, who expressed serious concern over the ongoing occupation of government land and the apparent failure to implement the eviction notice issued by the competent revenue authority.

The issue of land occupation in Assam, particularly in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), is a complex and sensitive topic, deeply intertwined with the socio-political landscape of the region. The BTR was created to provide a degree of autonomy to the indigenous Bodo people, and issues of land rights and occupation are often at the forefront of local governance and community relations. The BJSM’s demand for verification of land occupation highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding land use, ownership, and the rights of indigenous versus non-indigenous populations in the area.

In a statement, the working president of the BJSM, DD Narzary, highlighted that the Circle Officer of Sidli Revenue Circle had already issued a public eviction notice on August 5, 2023, via Memo No. SLR.12/Encroachers/2012/1165, directing the concerned 56 families to vacate the government land. Despite the considerable time that has elapsed, the eviction order has reportedly not been effectively enforced. The Mancha has urged the District Commissioner to take immediate and lawful action to enforce the earlier eviction notice and restore the government land from all individuals found to be occupying it illegally.

This situation is not unique to Choraikonsra; land encroachment is a pervasive issue in many parts of Assam, where the rapid growth of population and urbanization has led to increased pressure on land resources. The failure to enforce eviction orders can lead to further encroachments, as individuals may perceive a lack of consequences for illegal occupation. This could ultimately undermine the authority of local governance and exacerbate conflicts between communities over land rights.

Expressing deep concern regarding the ongoing census enumeration process, the organization maintained that the residential status and eligibility of individuals occupying government land must be properly verified based on official records and applicable rules before any such person is recognized for purposes where lawful residential status may be relevant. The census is a critical process that can impact resource allocation, political representation, and social services. Ensuring that only those with legitimate claims to residency are counted is essential for maintaining the integrity of this process.

Narzary clarified that the demand was not directed against any particular community or individual but aimed at addressing unlawful occupation of government land and any attempts to gain official recognition or benefits through occupation that has not been legally regularized. He emphasized that government land must be protected equally and impartially, regardless of the identity of the occupants. This stance is significant in a region where ethnic and communal identities often influence perceptions of land rights and governance.

The BJSM's actions reflect a broader movement among indigenous groups in Assam advocating for the protection of their land rights and the preservation of their cultural identity. The organization’s call for verification of land occupation is a reminder of the importance of adhering to legal frameworks governing land use and ownership. It also underscores the need for transparent and fair processes in dealing with land disputes to prevent further tensions among communities.

Moreover, the implications of this situation extend beyond Choraikonsra. As Assam grapples with issues of migration, land rights, and ethnic identity, the outcomes of such disputes can set precedents for future governance and community relations. The BJSM's memorandum could potentially influence how land issues are addressed in other parts of the state, particularly in regions where similar circumstances exist.

In conclusion, the demand for verification of land occupation in Choraikonsra by the BJSM is a significant step in addressing the complex issues surrounding land rights in Assam. It reflects the ongoing struggles of indigenous communities to assert their rights and protect their resources in the face of legal and administrative challenges. The response of local authorities to this demand will be closely watched, as it may shape the future of land governance and community relations in the region.