Fresh violence has erupted in Assam’s Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts, prompting authorities to suspend internet services to curb unrest and rumours. The conflict is tied to long-running protests over eviction demands and alleged land encroachments. Officials said security forces are working to restore order as tensions remain high.
Residents and protestors clashed with police and each other, injuring several people. Shops and vehicles were damaged during confrontations. Police used lathi-charge and tear gas to disperse the crowd in some areas.
Assam Violence: Why it Started?
The unrest stems from long-standing demands by tribal groups to evict alleged illegal settlers from protected grazing lands. These lands, known as Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) and Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) lands, are protected under the Constitution’s Sixth Schedule.
Thousands of protesters had been on an indefinite hunger strike for more than two weeks, demanding action from the government. When authorities tried to disperse hunger strikers, demonstrations intensified into clashes.
Prohibitory Orders and Security Measures
To control the situation, the district administration invoked Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nyay Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). This order bans gatherings of more than five people and restricts the movement of people and vehicles from 5 pm to 6 am.
Police and additional security forces have been deployed across sensitive areas. Authorities said the measures aim to prevent further damage to life and property and ensure peace returns quickly. Even with the order in place, night-long curfews and movement restrictions remain in force to stop fresh clashes.
Key Incidents During the Unrest
Several notable events have marked the latest wave of violence:
- Protesters torched the house of the chief of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) in Dongkamukam.
- Security forces fired blank shots and used tear gas to control crowds.
- Vehicles, houses and a school bus were damaged amid stone-throwing and abrasive clashes.
- Multiple people, including civilians and security personnel, sustained injuries.
- Officials have stressed that curbing rumours is vital in preventing further violence.
Internet Suspended to Prevent Rumours
Authorities suspended mobile internet and data services in both Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts. The step aims to stop the spread of misinformation and calm rising tensions. The internet ban is a common measure in volatile situations to curb viral rumours that could trigger fresh unrest.
Local Leaders Seek Dialogue
Officials and local representatives are urging calm and dialogue. Assam’s Chief Secretary and senior police officials visited the affected areas to review the situation and coordinate peace efforts.
Authorities have said they intend to engage community leaders and resolve disputes through discussion and democratic processes rather than force.
What’s Next for Karbi Anglong?
With prohibitory orders in place and security forces on alert, the focus is on suppressing further violence and restoring normal life. Curfews may remain if tensions persist.
Residents and protestors continue to push for the eviction of alleged encroachers from tribal lands, a core issue that remains unresolved despite court interventions and government efforts.
The situation remains fragile, and authorities are calling for peace while trying to address the underlying grievances through legal and political channels.