“Is This a Joke?”: HC Slams Allotment of Tribal Land in Assam to Company
The Gauhati High Court has strongly objected to the allotment of nearly 3000 bighas of land to Mahabal Cements, a private company, for mining activities in Assam’s Dima Hasao district.
During the hearing, Justice Sanjay Kumar Medhi expressed surprise and remarked, “3000 bighas! The entire district? What is going on? Is this a joke? Public interest must come first, not just the company’s need.”
The company’s counsel argued that the land given was barren and required for its operations. However, the Court did not accept this reasoning and directed production of records showing the policy behind granting such a massive stretch of land.
The bench observed that Dima Hasao is a Sixth Schedule district under the Constitution, where tribal rights and interests must be prioritised. It also noted that the Umrangso area, where the land is located, is an ecological hotspot known for hot springs, migratory birds, and rich wildlife.
The Court recorded in its order that the allotment of around 3000 bighas appeared to be “extraordinary” and warranted closer scrutiny.
Case: Mahabal Cement Pvt Ltd v State of Assam
