Congress Vows to Redistribute Assam CM’s Land to Poor
The Assam Congress leadership has vowed to redistribute land allegedly owned by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma if it wins the upcoming state elections. The party claims that several acres of land held by Sarma are being used illegally.
Land Alleged to Be Misused
Congress alleges that the land registered under close associates of the Chief Minister in Kamrup district remains unutilized and is in violation of state land‑use rules. Party spokespersons said the land should belong to marginal farmers who currently face land-scape shortages.
Redistribution Plan Tied to Manifesto
Assam Congress president insisted the party’s election manifesto includes a provision to reassign illegally held government land to the poor if the opposition gains power. The party claims this will benefit landless and marginalized families in rural areas.
BJP Denies Allegations
The ruling BJP disputed the claims, calling them politically motivated. State BJP leaders stated that all land holdings by Sarma and others comply with land rules and have undergone legal scrutiny. They stressed that allegations of illegal occupation are false and aimed at influencing voters.
Background of Land Issues in Assam
Demand for land reform and redistribution has gained traction in Assam over the years amid ethnic tensions and disputes over land ownership, especially in areas impacted by migration. Congress has previously accused the government of mishandling state land and bypassing procedures in transfers.
Political Stakes Ahead
With assembly elections approaching, land rights have become a central issue in political campaigning. Opposition leaders claim land will be a key plank to gain rural support, while ruling party leaders say the issue is being exaggerated for electoral gains.
What Voters Should Watch
- Verification of land records—how government land is registered and used
- Legal definitions of illegal holding and process for reclamation
- Congress’s promise transparency, including public data on reassigned land
- Potential legal challenges from beneficiaries if redistribution occurs
