Protest in Diphu Against Alleged Land Transfer to Corporates

Massive Demonstration in Diphu

On August 21, a significant protest was organized by the All Party Hills Leaders Conference (APHLC) in Diphu. The event, spearheaded by the group's president, Jones Ingti Kathar, was a reaction to the actions taken by the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) and its Chief Executive Member (CEM), Tuliram Ronghang.

The protest highlighted accusations that the current BJP-led government is violating the provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which aims to protect the rights and lands of indigenous tribal populations. Demonstrators expressed concerns that the KAAC has enabled the transfer of tribal lands to corporate entities, which could adversely affect local communities.

The march commenced at Birla and concluded at the Karbi Anglong District Commissioner's office, attracting a large crowd. Among the participants was Lurinjyoti Gogoi, president of the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP), who showed his support for the protestors.

During his speech, Gogoi made serious allegations against CEM Tuliram Ronghang, claiming there is a calculated effort to seize tribal lands for corporate gain.

He further stated that the current administration has failed to fulfill its electoral commitment to fully implement the Sixth Schedule's provisions, which are meant to ensure autonomy and protect the land rights of tribal communities in the Karbi Anglong area.

Gogoi asserted that a significant portion of protected land, amounting to thousands of bighas as per the Sixth Schedule, has been allocated to corporate interests, threatening the cultural and economic heritage of the region.