Assam Riots: Fresh Unrest Grips West Karbi Anglong, Curbs Imposed
By | Gitanjali Thorat | PR Desk
Violence Erupts Over Land Eviction Demands
Mumbai – Fresh violence has erupted in Assam’s West Karbi Anglong district, triggering widespread tension and forcing authorities to impose strict security measures. The unrest began following protests by tribal groups demanding action against alleged encroachment on protected grazing and tribal lands. What started as a peaceful agitation soon escalated into violent clashes, disrupting normal life across several areas.
Protests Turn Violent
Demonstrators initially gathered to press for eviction of what they described as illegal settlers from reserved lands. As the agitation intensified, groups blocked roads, staged sit-ins, and raised slogans, leading to confrontations with security forces. The situation deteriorated rapidly as incidents of stone-pelting, arson, and vandalism were reported in parts of Kheroni and nearby localities.
Several shops, vehicles, and private properties were damaged during the violence. In one of the most serious incidents, a political leader’s residence was set ablaze, adding to public outrage and fear among residents.
Casualties and Injuries Reported
The clashes resulted in loss of lives and multiple injuries, including civilians and police personnel. A differently-abled individual reportedly lost his life in a fire linked to the violence. Many security personnel sustained injuries while attempting to control aggressive mobs and restore order.
Emergency services were deployed, and the injured were rushed to nearby hospitals as authorities struggled to prevent the unrest from spreading further.
Administration Steps In
In response to the deteriorating law-and-order situation, the district administration imposed prohibitory orders, restricting public gatherings and movement in sensitive areas. Internet services were temporarily suspended to curb the spread of rumours and inflammatory content on social media.
Additional police forces were deployed, and senior officials were sent to the affected areas to monitor the situation on the ground. Crowd-control measures, including lathi charges and dispersal tactics, were used to prevent further escalation.
Political and Social Impact
The violence has once again brought the issue of land rights, tribal protection, and encroachment into sharp focus in Assam’s hill districts. Community leaders have urged restraint, warning that prolonged unrest could deepen ethnic and social divisions.
Political reactions have poured in, with calls for dialogue, transparency, and long-term solutions to address land disputes without resorting to violence.
Situation Under Watch
Authorities have stated that the situation is tense but under control, with peace gradually returning to some areas. Security forces continue to conduct patrols, and meetings with community representatives are underway to de-escalate tensions.
Residents, however, remain cautious as normalcy is yet to be fully restored.
The West Karbi Anglong violence highlights the fragile balance between development, land rights, and ethnic sensitivities in Assam. While immediate steps have been taken to control the unrest, experts say sustainable dialogue and policy intervention are crucial to prevent such incidents in the future.
