Haflong: The year-long dharnas protesting the alleged transfer of nearly 9,000 bighas of land to the Adani Group in Chhota Lakhindong and adjoining areas of Umrangshu appear to be drawing to a close. Reports indicate that the company has reached a compensation agreement with most of the affected villagers, effectively ending the prolonged agitation.

With the disputes seemingly resolved, several major cement projects—including the proposed Ambuja Cement plant—are now expected to move forward in the region. Signs of this development became evident during a public hearing held by the Assam Pollution Control Board (APCB) on Wednesday. Observers noted that following the settlement of compensation payments, the hearing and clearance process seemed more procedural than substantive.

It is alleged that both the Assam government and the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council had long planned the land transfer to the Adani Group. The move initially faced stiff resistance from local organisations and political groups backing the villagers’ opposition.

Court battles ensued, and protests intensified throughout the past year. However, after compensation payments began, most villagers reportedly accepted financial settlements rather than continue the confrontation.

Former Council member and chief convener of the Sixth Schedule Protection Committee, Daniel Langthasa, expressed sharp criticism over the process, calling it opaque and irregular. “We are not against development,” he said, “but why were the legal procedures of land acquisition not duly completed?

The entire exercise in Umrangshu on Wednesday was a mere show. How can compensation be paid before the Assam Pollution Control Board grants clearance?”

Langthasa warned that the unchecked expansion of mining and cement industries across thousands of bighas could severely harm Umrangshu’s fragile environment. “When such large-scale industrial units come up, even the air we breathe will become heavy, and there’s no assurance that the drinking water will remain safe,” he cautioned.

He also condemned allegations made during the public hearing that his organisation was “inciting” villagers. “Such statements are deeply unfortunate,” Langthasa said, reiterating that the Sixth Schedule Protection Committee stands for lawful, transparent, and environmentally responsible development in the hill district.