HT Correspondent
SIVASAGAR, Jan 10: Illegal land excavation at the historic Jerengapathar and adjoining areas of Desangmukh, Desang Rajabari, Konwarpur, Sensuwa Bongaon and several other locations in Sivasagar district has caused serious concern among the general public. The illegal activities have reportedly intensified since the commencement of four-laning works of National Highway 37, leading to alleged loss of state revenue amounting to several crores of rupees.
According to local sources, a section of land mafias has been carrying out large-scale excavation unchecked. The situation took a serious turn on Wednesday when land mafias allegedly threatened local scribes and video journalists at Jerengapathar with dire consequences for reporting on the issue.
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Amid growing public resentment, officials from the Amguri Revenue Circle Office (RCO), along with Forest and Transport Department officials, visited the excavated areas of Jerengapathar on Thursday. The officials assured the local people that action would be taken against those involved in illegal excavation and that strict vigilance would be maintained across the entire area.
Although the Transport and Forest departments have seized several dumpers from different locations, locals allege that illegal excavation continues unabated, allegedly with the backing of some political leaders.
Meanwhile, the All Tai Ahom Students Union (ATASU) submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister and the Forest Minister, demanding immediate and stringent action against those involved in the illegal activities. ATASU members, led by its president Basanta Gogoi, urged the government to keep constant watch over the historic Jerengapathar and the Ahom-era Pohugarh. The student body also demanded legal action against individuals who allegedly threatened media personnel while they were performing their professional duties.
