Assam govt introduces bill to set up district land tribunals in tribal belts

Guwahati: The Assam government on Tuesday moved a new legislation in the Assembly to set up district-level land tribunals dedicated to protecting land rights within tribal belts and blocks.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Keshab Mahanta introduced The Assam District Land Tribunal Bill, 2025, explaining that the proposed law would create independent bodies across the state to hear cases of land alienation in protected areas and tackle encroachment disputes.

Mahanta asserted that the legislation will strengthen land administration by introducing a specialised quasi-judicial system focused exclusively on safeguarding the land rights of protected communities.

He emphasised that the initiative fulfils Clause 6 of the 1985 Assam Accord and reflects the government’s larger objective of preserving the cultural, social and territorial rights of the Assamese people, especially those belonging to tribal regions.

The Statement of Objects and Reasons highlights that these tribunals aim to deliver quicker and more transparent decisions. It points out that the existing system often faces delays because revenue officials — already overloaded with administrative responsibilities — currently function as appellate authorities.

To streamline the process, the bill seeks to repeal Section 169 of the Assam Land & Revenue Regulation, 1886, and replace the present appeal mechanism with tribunals empowered with civil court authority.

Aggrieved parties may challenge tribunal rulings before the Gauhati High Court, ensuring judicial review.

The government plans to open these tribunals in 11 districts falling under tribal belts and blocks. It will not create new posts or offices; instead, it will utilise the existing revenue infrastructure. A retired district judge or additional district judge will head each tribunal.

Mahanta underlined that the proposed framework reinforces the government’s pledge to deliver fair, inclusive, and efficient land governance and to provide stronger legal protection for communities living in protected areas.