Assam violence: The land dispute in Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts of Assam has once again become the subject of intense conflict and violence. The district suddenly became the ground of tension and horrific incidents of arson, where two civilians have died and dozens of policemen have been injured. In view of the seriousness of the situation, the administration has suspended internet services and imposed strict prohibitory orders.
The issue of long-standing land dispute has resurfaced in the hilly districts of Assam, the impact of which has increasingly turned violent. On Tuesday, incidents of stone pelting, arson and clashes between two groups were reported in Kheroni and surrounding areas, in which two people lost their lives and more than 45 people were injured, including 38 policemen and many civilians.
Land dispute became a major reason for violence
The root of the violence is believed to be related to the land dispute of the Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) and the Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR), which are protected under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The local tribal community has been demanding removal of alleged encroachment in these areas for years. During this time, when the police took the protestors sitting on hunger strike to the hospital and got them medically examined, then the tension increased further due to the spread of rumours.
During the violence, the protesters set fire to the ancestral house of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) chief Tuliram Ronghang. Many shops, motorcycles and government buildings were also vandalized. The administration used lathi charge and tear gas to control the crowd, but the tension could not be reduced.
Internet shut down, section 163 imposed
In view of security, the administration has suspended mobile internet services in both the violence-affected districts to prevent the spread of rumours, inflammatory messages and misinformation. Voice calls and broadband services have been continued for the time being.
Section 163 of the Indian Justice Security Code (BNSS) has been implemented, under which gathering of five or more people, rallies and use of loudspeakers has been banned. Restrictions on movement from 5 pm to 6 am have also been imposed.
Statement of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has said that he is closely monitoring the situation and talks are being continued with all concerned parties to restore peace. Additional security forces have been deployed and treatment of injured persons is underway.
Experts believe that this dispute is old and complex, involving land rights, protection of tribal communities and the roles of local administration. The matter is also being considered in the Gauhati High Court, due to which efforts are on to find a peaceful solution to this dispute.
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