Assam Protesters Call Off Hunger Strike Amid Eviction Demands, Government Promises Talks
Image Source: Internet
A 12-day hunger strike by protesters in Assam's Karbi Anglong district has come to an end after talks with local Minister Ranoj Pegu. The protesters, from various organizations, had been demanding the eviction of encroachers from tribal belt areas. Following the talks, the protesters agreed to call off their strike, with the government assuring them that tripartite talks would be held soon, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in attendance. The talks aim to resolve the issue of encroachers settling on protected lands. The situation in the region had turned violent on Monday, with the residence of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council chief executive member Tuliram Ronghang being set on fire, and several shops damaged in the Kheroni Bazaar. Police firing had also injured four people, and a policeman along with three agitators. To maintain order, a night curfew has been imposed in Karbi Anglong district, with restrictions on movement and private vehicles. Additional forces have been deployed to the area, and the situation is reported to be under control. The protesters' demands are centered around the eviction of encroachers, mostly from Bihat, from protected lands in the two districts. The government has assured that dialogue is key to resolving the issue, and efforts are being made to engage with both the protesters and the encroachers.
