Protection of Satras Land: Assam CM Says 'Will Set Up Satra Commission With Quasi-Judicial Powers'

Guwahati, Assam: Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday said that the state government would set up a Satra Commission having quasi-judicial powers.

The commission, the chief minister said, would protect “Satras and their lands.” Satra is a spiritual institution and has been the center of traditional performing arts (literature, music and theater) in the State. The first Satra was founded in Assam’s Majuli, and devotees participate in the worship of Lord Krishna and Lord Vishnu and watch traditional bhaona performances. 

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There are 900 Satras spread across the State, which have been established for the propagation of socio-cultural ideals and ethics. Satras usually consist of a large prayer hall, bathing tanks, dormitories, and guest accommodation. Local Hindus and rulers have donated vast acres of land to Satras for cultural, economic and religious propagation over several centuries.

These lands are known as ‘Satra lands’, which were part of official land records. It is claimed that large portions of Satra lands in Assam are under illegal encroachment due to land mafia and political patronage, among other factors.

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