Assam's Kokrajhar District Gripped by Tension After Road Accident Sparks Violence
A tragic road accident in Assam's Kokrajhar district has ignited violent clashes between the Bodo and Adivasi communities. The incident occurred on Monday night in the Karigaon area, which falls within the Bodoland Territorial Region.
Fatal Crash Triggers Immediate Retaliation
A vehicle carrying three individuals from the Bodo community struck two people from the Adivasi community. According to IGP (Law & Order) Akhilesh Singh, the collision prompted others to attack the occupants of the vehicle. One person, identified as Sikhna Jwhwlao Bismit, died from his injuries. Four others received treatment at Kokrajhar Medical College and Hospital.
Kokrajhar Superintendent of Police Akhat Garg confirmed the detention of nineteen people overnight. Police are actively investigating the matter and urging the public to allow law enforcement to handle the situation legally.
Situation Escalates with Highway Blockades and Arson
Despite police efforts, tensions escalated sharply on Tuesday. Groups from both communities attempted to confront each other. Protesters blocked the national highway near the Karigaon police outpost. They burned tires and several houses. An office building was set ablaze, and there was an attempt to attack the police outpost itself.
Police responded with force against individuals pelting stones. IGP Singh stated that all available resources are currently focused on bringing the situation under control.
Internet Suspended to Prevent Rumour Spread
The Assam Home Department has suspended mobile internet services across the entire Kokrajhar district. The order cites concerns that social media and the internet could be used to spread inflammatory messages and rumours, potentially worsening the unrest. Services will remain suspended until further notice.
As a precaution, mobile internet services have also been suspended in the neighbouring Chirang district of the Bodoland Territorial Region. An official order noted that the turmoil from Kokrajhar is spreading rapidly to adjacent areas, posing a significant risk to law and order.
Leaders Appeal for Calm and Warn of External Agitation
Bodoland Territorial Council chief Hagrama Mohilary appealed for peace between the communities. He alleged that a "third party" was trying to politicise the situation and take advantage of the misunderstanding. "Both Adivasis and Bodos are people of this region. We appeal to everyone to maintain peace. We have to live here together," Mohilary said.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also issued a public appeal. He requested the full cooperation of community leaders and political figures to assist the government in restoring peace and normalcy as quickly as possible.
The deployment of the Rapid Action Force underscores the seriousness of the situation. Authorities remain on high alert to prevent further violence in the sensitive region.
