GUWAHATI : Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on December 29 issued a stern warning to illegal encroachers, asking them to vacate unlawfully occupied land and forest areas immediately, failing which the state government would take strict action.

Addressing a public gathering, Sarma said the government would show zero tolerance towards illegal encroachment and would not spare anyone found occupying land in violation of the law. “I warn all intruders to immediately vacate the illegal occupation of our land and forests. Otherwise, you are well aware of the strict action taken by our government,” he said.

Reiterating his government’s commitment to protecting Assam’s land and natural resources, the Chief Minister stressed that eviction and enforcement drives would continue without compromise. He said such actions were necessary to safeguard the state’s ecological balance and the rights of its people.

Sarma also appealed to local communities to take collective responsibility in protecting their land, identity and long-term interests. Referring to the teachings and legacy of Srimanta Sankardev and Madhavdev, he said unity and conscious decision-making could transform society.

“We must take a collective resolution – do not sell land to unknown people, do not give jobs to unknown people, and do not provide cultural or social spaces to unknown people. If we follow this path, after a decade our community will transform into a great power,” the Chief Minister said.

His remarks come amid ongoing government drives against illegal encroachment on government land and forest areas across Assam, initiatives that have frequently triggered political debate and public discussion across the state.