Police Resort to Firing in Air as Protest Turns Violent in Assam
Law enforcement officials in Assam were forced to fire warning shots into the air on Monday, December 22, 2025, following a violent protest that erupted in the West Karbi Anglong district. The situation escalated rapidly, prompting the district administration to take immediate and stringent measures to restore public order and ensure safety.
Administration Imposes Strict Prohibitory Orders
In response to the unfolding unrest, the district administration issued a formal order prohibiting the assembly of more than five persons in the affected area. This legal measure, commonly invoked under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), is designed to prevent unlawful gatherings that could lead to violence or a threat to public peace.
The order was a direct consequence of the day's events, where a demonstration spiraled out of control. While the specific trigger for the initial protest is being investigated, the authorities confirmed that the crowd's actions became aggressive, necessitating police intervention.
Sequence of Events and Official Response
The incident occurred on 22 December 2025. According to initial reports, a group of protesters gathered and their agitation soon turned violent. Faced with a volatile and potentially dangerous mob, the police on the ground made the decision to fire warning shots into the air as a last resort to disperse the crowd and prevent harm to people and property.
The swift imposition of the prohibitory order aims to maintain a tight grip on the situation in the coming hours and days. The administration has made it clear that any violation of the order will be dealt with firmly under the law. The situation in West Karbi Anglong is now being closely monitored, with additional police forces deployed to sensitive locations.
Aftermath and Current Situation
Following the police action and the declaration of the restrictive order, the area has reportedly calmed down. The primary focus of the authorities is now on preventing any further flare-ups. An assessment of damages, if any, is underway.
The use of aerial firing by police highlights the seriousness with which the administration viewed the threat to public order. Such measures are typically employed only when other methods of crowd control are deemed insufficient. The district officials have appealed to the local community for calm and cooperation to ensure peace prevails in West Karbi Anglong.
The incident underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining law and order in various regions. The state government is expected to review the circumstances that led to the violent protest. Further details are awaited as the local police continue their investigation into the root cause of the demonstration and the subsequent events of December 22.
