Assam: Silsako evictees protest over Rs 213 cr wetland grant, rehabilitation demanded
Assam: Silsako evictees protest over Rs 213 cr wetland grant, rehabilitation demanded
Digital Desk: Fresh protests erupted in Guwahati on Monday as residents displaced from the Silsako Beel area expressed strong opposition to the Assam government's handling of their rehabilitation, following the Centre's recent approval of Rs 213 crore for the wetland's rejuvenation under the PM Krishi Sinchayee Yojana.
The Union Ministry of Jal Shakti's announcement of the award over the weekend has sparked public outrage among families displaced during the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority's (GMDA) contentious demolition campaign. Protesters accused the state administration of failing to keep its promises about equitable compensation and resettlement.
Demonstrators called the eviction process "inhuman" and racist.
Dissatisfaction with the compensation system remains high. Residents alleged that the financial assistance offered—ranging from Rs 1 lakh and Rs 10 lakh—is terribly inadequate. " Even the Chief Minister stated that one katha of land here costs Rs 7 crore. "How can we rebuild our lives with such small sums?" a displaced person inquired.
The community has made formal demands, including Rs 5 lakh for thatched dwellings, Rs 15 lakh for Assam-style buildings, Rs 25 lakh for RCC structures, and an allocation of one katha ten lechas of land per household.
Protesters also attacked the GMDA for allegedly mishandling the eviction and compensation processes. They argued that official data is insufficient and erroneous, causing many legal residents to be omitted from compensation lists. "We filed extensive data ourselves, but now we're being asked to check again. The confusion is entirely GMDA's fault," a resident claimed.
According to the protesters, while 1,203 homes were razed during the eviction effort, less than 550 households received compensation.
"Authorities claim only 100 families remain to be reimbursed but refuse to give the official list. "There is no transparency," a demonstrator stated.
With tensions rising, displaced households are urging the state government to intervene immediately and prioritize their rehabilitation alongside the restoration of the wetland.
