Violent unrest in Assam’s West Karbi Anglong district has resulted in the deaths of two individuals, leading to a significant security response and close monitoring by the state government. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, describing the incident as “deeply painful.”
The situation remains tense following fresh incidents of arson reported on Tuesday, with authorities working to restore normalcy. The violence began in Kheroni Bazaar on Monday when protesters, demanding the eviction of alleged encroachers from Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) and Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) lands, clashed with the police.
Demonstrators, who had been on a hunger strike for 12 days, reportedly set fire to around 15 shops, attacked the local police station, and burned the residence of Tuliram Ronghang, Chief Executive Member of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC). Police resorted to firing to disperse the crowd, resulting in injuries to at least four individuals, including three protesters and one policeman.
Officials stated that the immediate cause was a police operation to remove the protesters from the area, which led to stone-pelting and widespread arson. The protesters, representing various political and social groups, claim that encroachers, mostly from Bihar, have unlawfully occupied reserved grazing lands in Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong.
Assam Director General of Police Harmeet Singh, currently stationed in the violence-affected area, appealed for calm and cooperation. He confirmed the deployment of additional security forces in key locations and mentioned that senior officers are engaging with community leaders to ease tensions through dialogue.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, labeling the incident as “deeply painful.” He assured that the state government stands in solidarity with the affected families and will offer all necessary support. Sarma announced the forthcoming deployment of more security personnel in the Kheroni area from Wednesday, emphasizing ongoing communication with stakeholders to restore peace.
“We aim for peaceful dialogue and resolution of underlying issues. I urge everyone to stay calm and avoid spreading rumors,” Sarma emphasized, reaffirming the government’s commitment to upholding law and order and safeguarding public and private assets. The Chief Minister also called on all sections of society to collaborate, highlighting the significance of peace and stability for the region’s progress.
