Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed concerns related to the proposed satellite township project near Palasbari during the special session of the Assam Legislative Assembly. Amid protests over alleged evictions in the Barduar Tea Estate area, Sarma clarified that no government-led eviction has taken place. He emphasized that the government has neither purchased land nor initiated any construction for the township. Instead, the administration is in the process of preparing a master plan, focusing on providing essential infrastructure and facilities rather than building government structures.

Sarma explained that the township development follows major infrastructure projects like the Palasbari-Sualkuchi Bridge and the expansion of Guwahati Airport, aiming to boost Palasbari’s urban development as a satellite township. He recalled that during an election campaign in the Rabha Hasong region, he had proposed the government could consider purchasing land from Barduar Tea Estate, home to tribal communities, and issue land pattas to them. He added that any land remaining beyond land policy provisions could be used for government-related projects.

Despite this, Sarma expressed concern over the protests, which erupted despite no eviction activity. He accused a section of the Congress party of exploiting the issue for political gain. While welcoming the protests as part of democratic expression, he urged consistency from the Opposition, stating that if Congress genuinely supports tribal rights, it should raise its voice for all tribal areas, including Goalpara, rather than being selective. Sarma emphasized that any evictions in the affected regions would target only illegal settlers, not genuine tribal residents. He highlighted the government’s intention to support tribal communities and revealed his willingness to initiate dialogue with the people of the Baghbar forest area. However, he lamented that Congress is instead pushing these communities toward court battles rather than peaceful discussions.

In response to Sarma’s statements, Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia criticized the BJP-led state government for manipulating land ownership rules. Saikia alleged that after land leases expire (typically after 99 years), the government takes over the land without purchase, citing this as a tactic by BJP to seize large areas and develop power plants. Meanwhile, Raijor Dal leader Akhil Gogoi appealed to the Chief Minister to issue land pattas to the affected people promptly, stressing that while people are ready for dialogue, resorting to court disputes would hinder any resolution.

The Chief Minister concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to peaceful resolution and development, urging all parties to engage in constructive discussions rather than politicizing the issue. The session underscored the complexities involved in balancing infrastructure development with tribal rights and land ownership concerns, highlighting the need for transparent governance and inclusive dialogue to address the grievances of all stakeholders effectively.

In summary, Sarma's address clarified the government’s stance on the Palasbari satellite township project, denied any forced evictions, and emphasized dialogue and legal adherence. The Opposition raised issues regarding land ownership and lease policies, while tribal rights and community concerns remained central to the ongoing political discourse. The government’s efforts to develop infrastructure are juxtaposed with calls for protecting tribal communities and ensuring fair land policies, reflecting the sensitive nature of development projects in the region.