Breaking Report: Karbi Anglong, Assam Gripped by Fresh Violence
In a concerning development, Assam's Karbi Anglong district has witnessed a second consecutive day of intense clashes, leading to at least eight injuries. Officials confirm that security forces were compelled to use tear gas and lathi-charge to control agitated groups. This escalation has prompted the state government to enforce a temporary suspension of internet services across Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts.
Escalation of Tensions: What Happened on Tuesday?
The latest wave of unrest on Tuesday unfolded as various groups gathered to protest. One group comprised women and children whose shops were reportedly destroyed by a mob the previous day. Simultaneously, other activists, demanding the removal of illegal settlers from tribal lands, also converged in the Kheroni market area.
Initial efforts by security personnel to calm the situation proved futile as both sides grew increasingly agitated. The confrontation intensified when protesters began throwing stones at each other. This led to injuries among several demonstrators, police officers, and even media professionals covering the incident. With the situation spiraling out of control, police resorted to a lathi-charge before deploying tear gas shells to disperse the crowd.
Chief Minister Sarma Addresses the "Sensitive" Situation
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has described the situation in Karbi Anglong as "very sensitive." Speaking to reporters, he stated, "Senior minister Ranoj Pegu is currently in the district. I am hopeful that the issue will be resolved swiftly."
The violence occurred despite existing prohibitory orders in the region, highlighting the deep-seated tensions.
Background to the Unrest: Demands for Eviction
The core of the protests revolves around demands for the eviction of alleged encroachers from tribal belt areas. Earlier on Tuesday, a 15-day hunger strike by various social and political organizations, pushing for the removal of illegal settlers, was called off. This came after discussions with Education Minister Ranoj Pegu, who assured them of upcoming tripartite talks involving the government, with CM Sarma also expected to attend.
Previous Day's Events: Monday's Rampage
The current unrest follows a violent Monday, where four individuals were injured in police firing. Protesters had gone on a rampage, setting fire to the residence of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) chief executive member Tuliram Ronghang and approximately 15 shops in Kheroni Bazaar. An attempt to attack the local police station was also thwarted by security forces.
Rumors Fueling Agitation, Clarification Issued
Following Monday's violence, CM Sarma indicated that rumors claiming the arrest of three hunger-striking protesters had circulated, leading to heightened agitation. He clarified, "No one has been arrested. They were taken to Guwahati for medical treatment as their health deteriorated."
The protesters are primarily demanding the eviction of "encroachers," many of whom they claim are from Bihar, from Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) and Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) lands within Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts.
The situation in the area remains tense, with additional security forces deployed to maintain order and prevent further escalation.
