Guwahati, Feb 10: Thousands of tribals from Monha village in central Assam’s Morigaon district have pledged to block the state government’s plans to extract granite from Hatiutha Pahar, a site of deep cultural, ecological, and tourism significance.
Hatiutha Pahar is not just a biodiversity hotspot supporting various bird and wildlife species but also a sacred landmark for the local community. However, a soil test conducted by the Directorate of Geology and Mining (DoGM) confirmed the presence of granite, prompting the department to float a tender (No. GM/ET/842/pt-1/1413) on August 14, 2024, for the allocation of three granite extraction blocks. The contract was awarded to a Kolkata-based firm owned by Bhaskar Sarma, a resident of Nagaon, Assam.
The mining project came to light when company officials visited the site just before Bhogali Bihu, sparking widespread anger. Since February 1, locals have staged continuous protests near Hatiutha Pahar, vowing not to let the government exploit their land for commercial gain.
“We knew that a soil test had been conducted, but we had no idea about the granite deposits or the tender. When the contractor’s team visited and spoke to us, we immediately consulted our elders and decided to resist,” said Rubul Ronghang, a protestor.
Villagers from Bhakat Gaon, Mayong, Bongalbari, Borigaon, Nuagaon, Belguri, Barampur, and Kathalguri have joined the movement, intensifying calls for government intervention. Protesters have already submitted a memorandum to the Circle Officer and Morigaon District Commissioner and plan to escalate their demands to Minister Pijush Hazarika.
“Hatiutha Pahar is more than a mountain—it is a symbol of our history, culture, and identity. Instead of mining, the government should develop it into a tourism hub to showcase its natural beauty and religious significance,” Ronghang stated.
A protest meeting held at Hatiutha under Jagiroad police station witnessed emotional appeals to safeguard the landmark. Chitra Bangthai, working president of the Karbi Cultural Society’s Morigaon District unit, declared: “This mountain is tied to the emotions and dignity of our people. Under no circumstances will we allow excavation. If necessary, we will launch a massive agitation.”
Protesters argue that the government’s push for short-term profits ignores long-term environmental and community damage. Moreover, it remains unclear whether the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has granted the necessary environmental clearances for the project.
