Violent protest in Chirang district of Assam, more than 20 people injured, internet service stopped

Violence broke out in Assam’s Chirang district on Friday during a protest against the detention of 25 people on charges of forest encroachment. More than 20 people were injured in the incident, including 15 policemen and forest department officials.

According to the police, on Thursday, while taking action against encroachment in Runikhata forest area (near India-Bhutan border), the forest department had detained 25 local people. The next day, Friday morning, more than 200 local people gathered outside the Runikhata forest office and demonstrated demanding the release of these people.

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Chirang Senior Superintendent of Police Dhruba Bora (who was himself injured) said that the protesters first attacked the forest office, spread rumours, then set fire to the office and vehicles and started pelting stones. The police had to resort to lathi charge and open fire in the air to control the situation. During this period 15 police and forest officers were injured. Many people among the protesters were also injured.

what is the allegation

The protesting tribal people say that the Forest Department is taking action only against the tribal people. He says, ‘If clearing forests is wrong then people of Bodo community are also doing the same, why is no action being taken against them? This is discrimination.

They also alleged that those detained were mistreated and women were manhandled by the police. Due to this anger the demonstration turned violent.

What is the situation?

The demonstration was organized by All Adivasi Students Association (AASAA) and All Santhal Students Union (ASSU). Both organizations have announced massive demonstrations across the Bodoland region and demanded an independent investigation.

Superintendent of Police Bora said that now the situation is under control. Additional police force has been deployed in the area. Mobile internet services have been suspended in Chirang and Kokrajhar districts.

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What did the government say?

Bongaigaon Superintendent of Police Numal Mahatta said, ‘We want to resolve the issue through talks, but if anyone takes law into their hands, strict action will be taken.’ Police have said that cases will be registered against those involved in the violence and investigation is underway.