HT Correspondent
HOJAI, Jan 2: The Hojai district administration initiated a peaceful eviction drive on Friday morning in the Jamuna Maudanga Reserved Forest, falling under the Doboka revenue circle. The operation was meticulously planned and executed with the presence of Additional District Commissioner Bonny Inam Shadab, Senior Superintendent of Police Rakesh Reddy, District Forest Officer Nayan Jyoti Rajbongshi and other senior officials. A substantial force of police and CRPF personnel was deployed to maintain order and ensure smooth conduct of the drive.
The Jamuna Maudanga Reserved Forest covers about 8,000 bighas, of which 6,000 bighas are being cleared of encroachments. A total of 1,258 families were found occupying the forest land; however, 152 cases remain under litigation at the Guwahati High Court and have been temporarily exempted from eviction. The remaining 1,098 families are being removed after completing all necessary legal procedures. Over 1,500 personnel from the forest department, police and CRPF were mobilised to prevent any untoward incidents during the operation.
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Additional District Commissioner Bonny Inam Shadab highlighted that local residents cooperated fully with most vacating the forest area by January 1, 2026. Senior Superintendent of Police Rakesh Reddy stated that the eviction is being carried out across five blocks and has remained peaceful.
During the operation, AIUDF leader Bilaluddin raised concerns regarding the felling of betel nut trees, engaging in arguments with district administration and forest officials. Officials clarified that betel nut trees are not classified as reserved forest trees and were legally removed.
As of the report, the eviction drive continues peacefully, with no reports of any untoward incidents from the area.
