The Assam Cabinet on July 10 under the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, approved a series of far-reaching decisions across multiple sectors. These include a landmark directive to hospitals, reforms in forest conservation, education, welfare support for traditional artisans and monastic communities, and new financial aid for school students. One of the most impactful decisions was the government’s stern order to private hospitals and nursing homes across Assam: release deceased bodies within four hours, regardless of outstanding bills, or face severe consequences. Starting August 1, detaining a patient’s body over unpaid dues will invite strict penalties, including suspension of licenses for 3–6 months, fines up to ₹5 lakh, and even permanent closure in cases of repeated violations.
“No body should be used as financial collateral,” said the Cabinet, underlining the dignity of the deceased and the rights of grieving families. Victims of such violations can report the matter by calling the 104 helpline or contacting local police. In another major announcement, the Cabinet confirmed that eviction drives in Goalpara district will resume from July 12, particularly targeting forest land encroachments at Paikan Reserve Forest and around 10 to 12 other sites. Despite public protests, the government emphasized that the Gauhati High Court has not issued any stay, allowing operations to proceed. Affected families will receive ₹50,000 in compensation, and land pattas will be granted to eligible indigenous landless families.
The Cabinet also addressed concerns over attempts to alter the demographic landscape in Lakhimpur. Reports indicated that individuals from Sribhumi and South Salmara-Mankachar have begun encroaching on forest land and planting rubber trees. In response, the government affirmed the land rights of indigenous residents by issuing legal documentation of ownership. On the education front, Hojai’s Rabindranath University will now be officially known as Rabindranath Thakur Vishwavidyalaya, following UGC guidelines, to prevent confusion with other institutions bearing similar names.