The Assam government has informed the Gauhati High Court that the allotment of 3,000 bighas of land in Dima Hasao district to Mahabal Cement for setting up a cement factory was carried out in accordance with the “due process of law.”

Appearing before the court, Advocate General Devajit Saikia submitted a report prepared by a three-member committee, which examined the land allotment, its suitability and potential implications.

Saikia clarified that the cement company, part of the Trivikram Consortium, had sought 6,000 bighas, of which 3,000 bighas were allotted by the autonomous council in two phases. The land has been leased for a 30-year term at an annual revenue rate of Rs 250 per bigha, along with a one-time premium of Rs 2 lakh per bigha.

He added that construction activities would commence only after obtaining mandatory clearances from the Union Environment and Forest Ministry and the state pollution control board. As per environmental norms, 34 per cent of the land must be retained as a green belt.

Of the total land, 1,782 bighas will be usable for plant operations, including roads, railway sidings, environmental facilities, a solar plant, truck parking, residential areas and open space. Around 554 bighas will remain vacant.

Saikia further stated that the Ceiling Act does not apply to Sixth Schedule districts and the autonomous council has full authority to allot land. “The final decision will rest with the central authorities. An elaborate review will be conducted before clearances are issued. Until then, no construction activity will take place,” he told the court.

The High Court has asked the petitioners to file their response to the affidavit submitted by the state government.

News source: The Assam Tribune