Dhubri, 10 July (HS): Tensions flared in Assam’s Dhubri district on Thursday as the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) staged a forceful protest against the state’s ongoing eviction drive, resulting in the detention of several senior party figures.

The protest, held in the Chapar revenue circle, targeted eviction operations underway in Charuabakra, Santoshpur, and Chirakuti Part-I & II—areas where local resistance has been intensifying over the past week. The demonstrators blocked National Highway 17 near Bilasipara, forcing police to intervene and take into custody at least nine sitting AIUDF MLAs.

AIUDF members, led by Mankachar MLA Aminul Islam, accused the administration of targeting marginalized communities under the guise of land reclamation. “Attempts to silence us won’t succeed,” Islam asserted, warning that the party would continue to voice people’s concerns.

The government has justified the eviction as essential for reclaiming land for a proposed thermal power plant. However, the move has triggered widespread discontent, with reports of sporadic violence and heavy police presence across the district.

By the time police cleared the highway blockade, normal traffic had been disrupted for hours, underscoring the growing unrest over land rights and displacement.

As political opposition sharpens, the administration appears resolute in its stance—framing the drive as a critical step toward executing key infrastructure plans.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash