Dhubri Election Office Vandalized in Protest Over 'D' Voter Declaration
In a shocking incident on Monday, the Dhubri election office in Assam was vandalized by an individual allegedly protesting the declaration of a family member as a "D" voter following the recent Special Revision (SR) of the electoral roll. The accused, identified as Abdur Rashid, around 45 years old, entered the office in Ward No. 1 of Dhubri town and caused significant damage to property and electronic equipment.
Details of the Vandalism Incident
According to sources from the Dhubri election office, the incident occurred at approximately 9:45 AM. Rashid, carrying a thick wooden piece, forcefully broke the door and window panes to gain entry. He then proceeded to the staff working room, where he smashed computers, UPS units, keyboards, and other allied electronic gadgets. The source reported that two sets of computers were completely destroyed, and additional damage was inflicted on stationery items and office furniture.
Prior to the vandalism, Rashid had reportedly asked election staff to explain how his family member was designated as a "D" voter. The staff expressed inability to assist due to a technical snag in the computer system, which allegedly further enraged him, leading to the destructive outburst.
Official Responses and Police Action
Dhubri election officer Sugata Goswami, who was present in his chamber during the incident, immediately contacted the police upon witnessing the vandalism. Police personnel from Dhubri Police Station (Sadar) swiftly arrived at the scene and arrested Rashid. He was taken into custody for further interrogation.
Pritom Das, the officer-in-charge of Dhubri Police Station, stated that during preliminary questioning, Rashid confessed that his actions were motivated by the "D" voter declaration of a family member in the SR electoral roll. Goswami commented that Rashid "apparently looked unstable and seemed under the influence of liquor or something else," adding that the full motive behind the ransacking would be uncovered through ongoing police investigation.
Security Measures and Broader Implications
In response to the incident, additional security forces have been deployed in and around the Dhubri election office to prevent any further disturbances. This event highlights tensions surrounding electoral processes in Assam, particularly concerning "D" voters—a category often associated with doubts over citizenship status in the region.
The vandalism raises concerns about public frustration with administrative procedures and the need for transparent communication in electoral matters. Authorities are urging calm as the investigation continues to ascertain all facts related to this disruptive act.
