Gauhati HC Criticizes State Over Tribal Land Allotted for Mining

Quick Summary:

• The Gauhati High Court expressed concern over the Assam government’s allotment of around 3,000 bighas of land to Mahabal Cement Private Limited for mining purposes in Dima Hasao, a region within the 6th Scheduled District meant to prioritize tribal rights and interests.
• The allotments were made in two phases: 2,000 bighas in October last year and another adjacent 1,000 bighas a month later.
• Mahabal cement signed a ₹110 billion investment MoU with the Assam government during an investment summit in February 2025.
• Justice Sanjay Kumar Medhi criticized the decision as being contradictory to public interest and questioned if it was “some kind of joke” due to its scale.
• The company’s legal counsel defended the allocation as per mining leases granted through a tender process.
• The court directed the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council to produce records on policies enabling such extensive land allocation.
• Dima Hasao’s ecological significance as an environmental hotspot was also underlined by the court during deliberations.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The Gauhati High Court’s intervention highlights crucial legal and ethical questions around land allotment policies versus regional priorities for tribal communities under India’s Constitution. While economic development through private investments promises growth, giving precedence to large-scale corporate activities over indigenous rights could lead to long-term socio-environmental concerns. In this case, balancing industrial benefits-like job creation or infrastructure enhancement-with equitable measures that respect historical frameworks protecting marginalized groups will remain significant for state governance across India. Additionally, clear policymaking is vital when environmentally sensitive areas are involved. This case may set precedents for future governance decisions regarding tribal rights versus developmental projects.Read more