The All Assam Tribal Students’ Union (AATSU) has strongly condemned the alleged illegal transfer of protected tribal lands in various regions of Assam. The student body accused the Assam Government, Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), and Dima Hasao Autonomous Council (DHAC) of violating constitutional safeguards. Nevrtheless, misusing development initiatives to displace indigenous communities.
During a press conference in Guwahati, AATSU leaders called the transfers “unconstitutional” and demanded immediate revocation of all such agreements. They have warned of a statewide protest if corrective action is not taken.
Protected Lands Under Threat
AATSU claims that lands reserved for Scheduled Tribes under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution are being handed over to private companies and non-tribal individuals. Also, these lands, located in tribal belts and blocks. These are meant to preserve the identity. Moreover, heritage of tribal communities.
According to AATSU President Rupam Teron, “These transfers are blatant violations of tribal land rights. Under the guise of infrastructure and tourism projects. And, protected lands are being diverted without proper consultation with local stakeholders.”
Development vs. Displacement
The controversy revolves around land parcels in Kokrajhar, Udalguri, and Dima Hasao. While government bodies argue that the projects will generate employment and boost local economies, AATSU insists that such moves undermine tribal autonomy and cultural survival.
“We are not against development,” Teron clarified, “but not at the cost of our existence. These so-called development projects have displaced tribal families without compensation or rehabilitation.”
BTC and DHAC Under Fire
AATSU has accused both the BTC and DHAC of failing their constitutional responsibility to protect tribal land. The student body alleges that these autonomous councils, instead of acting as custodians, are enabling the transfer of land for commercial gain.
In Dima Hasao district, residents of several tribal villages have reportedly received eviction notices, prompting fear and anxiety among indigenous communities. Protests have begun to form, with local groups joining AATSU in voicing opposition.
Legal and Constitutional Dimensions
The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution provides special provisions to safeguard tribal land in the Northeast. AATSU has appealed to the Governor of Assam and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, seeking intervention.
Legal experts echo the concerns. “Any diversion of protected tribal land without the consent of the local autonomous council and the tribal community is constitutionally questionable,” said Guwahati-based advocate Hemanta Doley.
AATSU has also hinted at filing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Gauhati High Court if the government does not reverse its decision.
Growing Support
Several tribal organizations, civil society groups, and student unions across Assam have extended solidarity with AATSU. The All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU) and Karbi Students’ Association (KSA) have also called for transparency and community participation in any decision related to tribal land.
Local tribal residents from the affected areas have started signature campaigns. Demanding the return of their ancestral lands.
- Learn more about the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution
- Assam Land Policy 2019 – Full Document
Effect of AATSU Protest
As the cry grows louder that AATSU condemns tribal land transfers, the focus is now on the state and central government. To ensure that tribal rights are upheld and constitutional safeguards respected.
Residents, rights groups, and legal observers await the administration’s next move. For Assam’s tribal communities, the question is no longer just about land—it’s about survival.