“Go to Nepal”: DC’s Alleged Threat to Gorkha Family Triggers Outrage in Assam

A major controversy has erupted in Assam’s Biswanath district after four indigenous Gorkha families from Baligaon village under the Helem revenue circle were allegedly threatened with eviction by the District Commissioner (DC) Munindra Nath Ngatey over a phone call.

A viral audio recording, purportedly of the DC, has intensified the row, drawing widespread condemnation from civil society groups, Gorkha organisations, and local residents.

According to reports, the families in question have been living in the same location in Baligaon for the past 60 to 70 years. Gopal Sharma, a member of one of these families, claims he received a phone call from Bishwanath DC Munindra Nath Ngatey, in which the official allegedly used threatening and abusive language.

In the now-viral recording, a voice believed to be that of the DC is heard telling Sharma to vacate the land and "go to Nepal." The caller further warns: “Just like others were driven out with bulldozers, your houses will also be bulldozed. Watch how I play my game!” The tone and language used in the call have triggered outrage among various quarters.

Reacting sharply to the incident, several Gorkha organisations and community leaders have condemned the alleged remarks, calling them "blatantly discriminatory, undemocratic, and unacceptable in a civilised society." Local protestors and rights groups have demanded a thorough investigation into the matter and action against the official involved.

Supporting the families’ claims of long-standing residency, documents have emerged showing that they paid land revenue (khazana) between 1966 and 1990. Additionally, certificates issued by former village heads and the Baligaon Development Committee recognise the families as lawful settlers on the land.

“This is not just an attack on four families, but on the larger Gorkha community that has contributed to Assam for generations,” said one activist. “Evicting 'Khilonjiya' (indigenous) Gorkhas without due process is illegal and deeply hurtful.”

As the controversy grows, political parties and community bodies are also beginning to take notice. Calls for the suspension of the District Commissioner, pending inquiry, are gaining momentum.

Meanwhile, the district administration is yet to issue an official statement on the matter. However, with mounting pressure from the public and rights groups, a response is expected soon.

The incident has once again brought to the forefront issues of land rights, administrative accountability, and the treatment of indigenous communities in Assam — raising difficult questions that the state machinery will now be compelled to address.

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