Eviction Drive Launched in Hailakandi to Clear Encroached Forest Land

The Hailakandi district administration has begun a large-scale eviction drive to remove alleged encroachments from over 2,800 bighas of reserved forest land at Damcherra near the Mizoram border. The operation, running till February 4, has affected 516 families, with several vacating voluntarily.

The first phase focused on clearing betel nut plantations. Authorities deployed heavy security and machinery, stating the action follows legal procedures after residents failed to prove lawful ownership. Restrictions under Section 163 have been imposed across the district till February 5 to maintain law and order.