Two Dead, Dozens Injured Amid Land Rights Dispute

Violent clashes erupted in Assam’s Karbi Anglong district due to tensions over alleged illegal non-tribal settlements. So far, two people have died, dozens are injured, and the state government has imposed curfew-like restrictions and suspended mobile internet services in two districts.

The unrest took place in West Karbi Anglong and nearby areas after longstanding land rights disputes escalated into confrontations between tribal protesters and security forces.

Security Forces Face Violent Attacks

Assam Director General of Police (DGP) Harmeet Singh reported that 48 police personnel, including senior officers, suffered injuries. Protesters used bows, arrows, stones, and crude bombs during attacks.

Police said protesters tried to take control of a local bridge. When authorities stopped them, the crowd turned violent. “Crude bombs and stones were thrown, and I was attacked with bows and arrows,” Singh said. Authorities are reviewing video evidence to hold offenders accountable.

Land Rights and Sixth Schedule at the Core

The protests started because the Karbi community opposed what they called illegal encroachment by non-tribal settlers on protected grazing lands. These districts are under the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council, which the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution governs. This law gives tribal regions control over land, forests, and local governance to protect indigenous communities.

For over a year, residents have demanded the eviction of alleged encroachers, citing threats to tribal land rights.

Hunger Strike and Misinformation Spark Violence

Tensions rose when the Karbi community began a hunger strike on December 6. Later, police moved some fasting protesters to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital because of health concerns.

However, misinformation spread that a protest leader had been arrested. This caused anger and triggered violence and arson, DGP Singh said. “A large crowd gathered after rumors spread. Violence does not solve anything,” he added.

Government Talks Announced Amid Arson

State Cabinet Minister Ranoj Pegu met protesters in Kheroni and secured agreement for tripartite talks on December 26. The discussions will involve the state government and the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council.

Despite this, shops and markets in Kheroni were set on fire. Authorities formed a special investigation team and are using video evidence to identify arsonists.

Internet Suspended to Prevent Escalation

To reduce the spread of inflammatory messages, the Assam government suspended mobile internet services in Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong. Voice calls and fixed-line broadband remain functional. Authorities warned that violations would be punishable under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885.

Chief Minister Monitors Situation

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma deployed additional forces to Kheroni and appealed for calm. “It is deeply painful that two persons lost their lives,” Sarma said in a post on X, offering condolences and support.

Authorities urged community leaders to restrain youths and prevent further violence before the scheduled talks later this week.