Assam Bill Proposes Satra Preservation and Development Commission
Why in the news
A bill in Assam proposes setting up a commission to protect satra lands and heritage, in news on 26 November 2025.
Key facts
- Body: the Assam Satra Preservation and Development Commission, a quasi-judicial authority.
- Role: preserve satras and shield their land from encroachment.
- Functions: conduct surveys and inspections and begin suo motu inquiries on encroachment.
- Powers: equal to a civil court under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, including summoning, ordering discovery, taking affidavits and awarding costs.
- Fund: an Assam Satra Preservation and Development Fund, with annual budgeting and reporting, audited by the Accountant General, Assam.
- Staff: officials will come on deputation rather than permanent posts.
About satras
Satras are Vaishnavite religious and cultural institutions of Assam. The framework aims to prevent misuse while allowing culturally sensitive development, and the state government may issue policy directions to the commission.
Exam angle
- Satras link to Assam’s Vaishnavite tradition.
- Know the meaning of quasi-judicial and suo motu.
- Fund audit: Accountant General, Assam.