‘Is This a Joke?’: Gauhati HC Slams 3,000-Bigha Land Allotment to Cement Firm in Dima Hasao

Guwahati – The Gauhati High Court has come down heavily on the Assam government and Mahabal Cements over the allotment of nearly 3,000 bighas of land in Dima Hasao’s Umrangso region, an ecologically rich area known for hot springs, migratory birds, and wildlife.

During the hearing of Sonesh Hojai and 21 Ors vs State of Assam and 6 Ors, Justice Sanjay Kumar Medhi expressed disbelief when informed that such a vast tract had been allotted. A viral courtroom video shows him asking:
“3,000 bighas? The entire district? Is this some kind of joke?”

The company’s counsel described the land as “barren” and argued it was required for a cement factory. Justice Medhi, however, retorted: “We know how barren it is. Public interest must come first.”

The judge directed the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC) to submit documents on the land allotment policy. The case, involving petitions from locals opposing eviction and a counter-plea by Mahabal Cements, will be heard again on September 1.

The matter has ignited debate over corporate land acquisition, environmental safeguards, and tribal rights under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

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