Guwahati, Sept 25: The Assam government is actively working on introducing legislation that will restrict the sale of land within an eight-kilometer radius of the historic Batadrava Than to “non-indigenous people,” as confirmed by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Batadrava, situated in Nagaon district, holds significant historical importance as it is the birthplace of the 16th-century Neo-Vaishnavite saint-reformer Srimanta Sankardeva.
During a special event organized to commemorate the 575th birth anniversary of Srimanta Sankardeva at Batadrava, Chief Minister Sarma made a significant announcement. He emphasized the government’s determination to draft a law that will prohibit individuals who are not considered indigenous from acquiring land in the vicinity of Batadrava Than.
Additionally, Sarma has instructed the Deputy Commissioner (DC) to refrain from granting land purchase and sale permissions to non-indigenous individuals until the Act is finalized.
Furthermore, Chief Minister Sarma expressed optimism about the legislation’s timely implementation. He stated that during the Vidhan Sabha session in February, the government aims to introduce a comprehensive law that will specify that only individuals who have resided in the area for a minimum of 100 years will have the privilege of buying and selling land within an eight-kilometer radius of Batadrava Than.
Also Read: Mizo National Front Unveils Candidates for Upcoming Mizoram Legislative Assembly Election
The proposed legislation reflects the Assam government’s commitment to preserving the sanctity and historical significance of Batadrava, which is revered as the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva. This 16th-century saint-reformer holds immense cultural and religious importance in Assam, particularly among the indigenous communities.
By introducing legal measures to protect the land surrounding Batadrava Than, the government aims to safeguard the heritage and cultural heritage of the region. It seeks to ensure that only those with deep-rooted connections to the area can influence its development and land transactions.
The proposed law aims to strike a balance between preserving the historical and cultural heritage of Batadrava and addressing the concerns related to land acquisition by non-indigenous individuals.
Srimanta Sankardeva’s teachings and contributions have had a profound impact on Assam’s cultural and religious landscape. His influence extends beyond religious practices, encompassing various art forms, literature, and social reform. Therefore, the Assam government’s decision to protect the land around Batadrava Than reflects its dedication to preserving the legacy of this revered saint-reformer.
As the legislative process unfolds and the proposed law takes shape, it will be essential to strike a balance between heritage preservation and ensuring that the interests of indigenous communities are upheld.
The government’s efforts to enact this law underscore its commitment to honoring the legacy of Srimanta Sankardeva and preserving the historical and cultural heritage of Batadrava for generations to come.
