Assam Braces for Tension as KAAC Chief's House Burns Amid Protests, 4 Hurt in Police Firing

Image Source: Internet

Tensions ran high in Assam's Karbi Anglong district after protesters set fire to the residence of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) Chief Tuliram Ronghang, prompting police to open fire. Four people, including a policeman, were injured in the ensuing clash. The police allegedly tried to disperse protesters in the Kheroni area, leading to a violent confrontation. The protesters, who have been on a 12-day hunger strike demanding the eviction of illegal settlers, claimed that three of their members were arrested by the police. However, Ronghang denied this, saying they were taken to hospital for medical attention. The situation turned volatile just hours before Ronghang was set to meet the protesters for discussions. The KAAC chief had previously called for talks to resolve the issue, which has been pending in the courts for over a year. In response to the escalating situation, District Magistrate Nirola Phangchopi imposed a night curfew and prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure in Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts. The orders restrict movement and gatherings, and prohibit the use of electronic and social media to spread inflammatory content. Additional security forces have been deployed to maintain law and order, and talks are underway between the authorities and the protesters, led by DGP Harmeet Singh. The protesters are demanding the eviction of encroachers from the Professional Grazing Reserve and Village Grazing Reserve in the two districts.