Assam LoP Publishes Company Record in Sonapur Tribal-Belt Land Row as Minister Denies Ownership
Saikia's publication of a company balance sheet entry prompted his demand for a sworn denial.
Overview
- Debabrata Saikia released what he says is Protech Buildcon’s FY 2023–24 balance sheet listing “Land at Sonapur” valued at Rs 1.34 crore under property and equipment.
- He demanded that Ashok Singhal file an affidavit within 24 hours declaring that neither he nor any linked company owns land in Sonapur, and asked for survey and patta details.
- Ashok Singhal rejected the allegation as politically motivated, challenged Saikia to prove that he owns even an inch of land in the tribal belt, and said he would quit politics and leave Assam if proven.
- Saikia linked Protech Buildcon to companies he says are connected to Singhal’s family and urged allocation of the plot to Zubeen Garg’s khetra if it is not tied to the minister.
- Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said he had no knowledge of the matter as the Opposition pressed for a probe led by the Chief Secretary into alleged encroachment in the protected tribal belt.