The lives of hundreds of Muslims in Goalpara district, Assam, have been devastated after a government-backed bulldozer campaign razed over 700 homes in the Hasila Bill area. The demolition, justified by authorities as a crackdown on illegal settlements, has left families homeless amid scorching heat and impending monsoon rains.
Residents and activists say the campaign targets the Muslim community under the guise of legality, forcing long-standing Indian citizens into makeshift shelters with minimal support. Tragically, 60-year-old Zaitoon Nisha died recently due to heatstroke and illness, underscoring the severe neglect faced by displaced families.
“The government has bulldozed homes of people who have lived here for generations, treating them as outsiders. These are Indian citizens whose names are on the voter list,” said Aninul Haque Chowdhury, leader of the All Assam Minority Students Union (AAMSU). He condemned the lack of relief efforts and warned of worsening conditions, especially for children.
Locals say that the demolished homes belong to Indian Muslims with official documents proving their citizenship, contrary to claims branding them as illegal settlers or Bangladeshis.
Fatima Begum, a mother of four, shared her ordeal: “We lost everything in a day — our house, our belongings. My children now suffer in the heat and rain. We only ask for dignity and safety.”
School teacher Imran Hussain added, “This is not just an attack on property but on our identity. We urge authorities to listen before more harm is done.”
