IN RE Vs. STATE OF ASSAM

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This public interest litigation was registered suo -moto by this Court following a news report.

(2.) On 27.06.2013, the news paper 'The Sentinel' published a news item regarding encroachment in and around Bordowa Than in the district of Nagaon. Bordowa Than is the birth place of Srimanta Shankardev. It is not necessary to deliberate upon the various facets of the life and works of Srimanta Shankardev, as it would be stating the obvious. Needless to say, he is a colossal figure in the social, cultural and religious history of Assam and a leading saint of the 15th -16th century who spearheaded the 'Bhakti movement' in this part of the country. Bordowa Than is also one of the first 'Satras' (monastries) established by Srimanta Shankardev. Despite being a major spiritual centre and a place of tourist attraction, it has not received the due attention of the State or the Central Govt. The news report stated about encroachment in and around Borduwa Than.

(3.) This Court issued notice to the various authorities, following which, affidavits were filed. On perusal of the affidavits, this Court vide order dated 28.04.2014 took the view that a detailed report should be called for before passing any order. Accordingly, Member Secretary, Assam State Legal Services Authority was directed to visit Bordowa Than alongwith his team members and to submit report regarding encroachment.