Guwahati: A coalition of opposition parties, civil society organisations and land rights groups staged a protest in Guwahati on Saturday, demanding the release of land rights activist Pranab Doley and withdrawal of his detention under the National Security Act (NSA).
Doley, a land rights activist opposing the proposed Hyatt luxury resort project at Inglay Pathar near Kaziranga, was arrested on July 12 over a protest against the project. Though granted bail on July 29, the Assam government invoked the NSA against him on July 30, citing concerns over public order and security.
The demonstration was held at Chachal and organised by the Bhumi Adhikar Joutha Sangram Samiti (BAJSS). Protesters alleged that the NSA was being used to discourage land rights campaigns and silence voices representing indigenous communities.
BAJSS convenor Subrata Talukdar said the agitation would continue until Doley was released unconditionally and the NSA action against him was withdrawn. He questioned the use of a national security law against an activist involved in raising concerns over land rights.
The protest also brought wider concerns over land acquisition and development projects in Assam into focus. Speakers alleged that indigenous land in areas including Karbi Anglong, Dima Hasao, Rabha Hasong and Tiwa regions was increasingly vulnerable to acquisition and large-scale commercial projects.
The proposed changes to the eco-sensitive zone around Kaziranga National Park also came under criticism. Protest leaders expressed concern that reducing the protected area could lead to increased construction and commercial activity around the national park.
Raijor Dal president and Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi accused the government of attempting to weaken the land rights movement by detaining activists. He said the use of the NSA could create fear among protesters and affect organised movements.
Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) president Lurinjyoti Gogoi also condemned Doley’s detention, saying citizens have democratic and constitutional rights to protest over land and other public issues. He also opposed the proposed Satellite Township Bill, alleging that it could affect the interests of indigenous communities.
Representatives of the Congress, AJP, Raijor Dal and ASDC joined the protest along with land rights groups and community representatives from different parts of Assam.
The protesters warned that they would intensify their campaign if the government failed to address their demands, including Doley’s unconditional release and withdrawal of the NSA action.