NCST Scrutinizes Land Dispute in Karbi Anglong Solar Project

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has taken a keen interest in the ongoing land dispute involving the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) and the Assam Power Distribution Corporation Limited (APDCL) over nearly 18,000 bighas of land in Karbi Anglong district. The dispute stems from a proposed 1,000 MW solar power project at Lahorijan, which has been officially scrapped.

Abandoned Project, Persisting Concerns

Despite the Asian Development Bank (ADB) withdrawing a proposed USD 434.25 million loan for the project in May 2025, the NCST has raised concerns about the unresolved status of the land. The Commission has expressed apprehension that the 90-year land allotment agreement between KAAC and APDCL remains legally valid, despite the project's cancellation.

APDCL's Closure Claim Challenged

APDCL has maintained that the matter should be considered closed following the ADB's withdrawal of funding. However, the Indigenous Peoples Party (IPP) president, Rajen Timung, has disputed this claim, asserting that cancellation of the project does not automatically nullify the land lease or safeguard indigenous land rights.

New Developments and Potential Impacts

Intriguingly, reports suggest that APDCL has entered into a joint venture with Neyveli Lignite Corporation India Limited (NLCIL) to develop a 500 MW solar project on around 8,000 bighas of land in the same area. This proposed venture could displace over 1,500 tribal families, raising serious concerns over land rights, consent, and the protection of Scheduled Tribe interests in Karbi Anglong.

Regional Implications

The ongoing land dispute and potential future projects in Karbi Anglong have far-reaching implications for the North East region, where indigenous communities have long been fighting to protect their land rights and cultural heritage. The issue underscores the need for careful consideration of projects that could potentially displace tribal communities and infringe upon their rights.

NCST's Role and Future Steps

In its next final hearing, the NCST has directed KAAC to submit a comprehensive report detailing the current legal status of the land, its present usage, and any future plans. The Commission's intervention underscores its commitment to ensuring the protection of tribal rights in Karbi Anglong and elsewhere in India.

Reflections and Looking Forward

As the saga of the Lahorijan solar project unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by indigenous communities in their struggle to safeguard their land rights. The NCST's intervention offers a glimmer of hope, but much work remains to be done to ensure the protection and preservation of tribal lands and cultures in the North East and beyond.