The Gauhati High Court has issued a set of important directives to the Assam government to ensure that eviction drives across the state are carried out in a fair, transparent, and lawful manner. The court stressed that evictions from government land, forest areas, and water bodies must be conducted without discrimination based on caste, religion, or language.
According to the High Court, authorities are required to serve a prior notice of at least 15 days to families affected by the eviction drives. This measure aims to ensure that all residents are properly informed and given sufficient time to make arrangements before any action is taken. The court also made it clear that all operations must strictly follow judicial procedures and government regulations.
While the state government has the legal authority to remove illegal encroachments, the court emphasized that the process must remain transparent and fair. The directives come amid recent eviction drives in districts such as Golaghat, Bongaigaon, and Uriamghat, which have sparked public debate and controversy. Reports indicate that some indigenous Assamese families were affected, leading to protests and criticism from local communities. 
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has repeatedly assured that native Assamese families will not be targeted during eviction drives. “The government’s efforts are focused on illegal settlers. Genuine residents of Assam, including indigenous Assamese Muslims, will remain protected,” Sarma said earlier this year.
The Sadou Asom Goria Jatiya Parishad (SAGJP) had approached the Gauhati High Court seeking protection for indigenous Assamese Muslims who have lived in the state for generations. In response, the court has reinforced the principle that while the government can act against illegal encroachments, it must do so without harming the rights of legitimate residents.
