“Our Land Is Not...” Slogan Rocks Protest Against Township Plan

A massive protest erupted once again in Barduar under the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC) area, where thousands of people voiced strong opposition against the proposed satellite township project. The project, intended to be developed over 1,500 acres of green land, has sparked widespread concern among indigenous communities fearing displacement and environmental degradation.

At the heart of the protest was a clear message to the Assam Chief Minister: “Our land is not your playground. Protect our livelihood, environment, and identity from the monster called development.” Protesters demanded an immediate halt to the allotment of tribal lands to corporate entities like Adani and Ambani.

The protest, organised by the Barduar Bagan Land Pattadar Demand Committee, drew thousands of residents, all fearing the loss of their ancestral land. Three revenue villages surrounding Bordua are particularly at risk, with residents worried about forced eviction under the guise of development.

The protesters demanded the complete cancellation of the satellite township plan and called for legal land titles (pattas) to be granted to indigenous families. The gathering turned into a powerful citizen protest meeting, with demonstrators raising slogans against the government and blocking roads in a peaceful show of resistance.

“If needed, we will face any consequence, but this satellite township will not be allowed,” declared one protester during the gathering.

Meanwhile, internal tensions within the Rabha leadership also came to light. Former ally Ramen Singh Rabha accused Tankeswar Rabha, a prominent Rabha figure, of betraying community interests for personal gain. “Tankeswar Rabha has turned into a puppet of profit and no longer represents the Rabha people during this crisis,” said Ramen Singh, slamming his former associate in sharp terms.

The event began with a rendition of the iconic song “Bol Bol Krishak Sakti Dol” by Bishnu Prasad Rabha, setting a tone of unity and cultural pride.

As public resistance grows, the slogan “Our Land Is Not the Chief Minister’s Playground” has become a rallying cry for indigenous communities. Whether the government takes heed of this public outcry remains to be seen.

Also Read: "No Satellite City in Tribal Land": Rabha Hasong Protest Intensifies