One dead in Karbi Anglong unrest, sources confirm; Opposition targets BJP govt
The situation in Karbi Anglong district took a serious turn following violent incidents that erupted after protests escalated late at night, leading to arson, police firing and the death of at least one person. The violence, which included an attack on the residence of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council Chief Executive Member Tuliram Ronghang, has triggered sharp reactions from opposition leaders, who have blamed the state government for what they describe as a complete failure of administration and policing.
According to sources, the unrest intensified after a group of protesters gathered late at night, raising demands related to long-standing issues in the district. It has been confirmed from source that one person succumbed to injuries at a hospital. Two others were critically injured during police action and are currently undergoing treatment, while another injured person is said to be battling for life. In addition, two more individuals sustained injuries and are receiving medical care. The identities of those killed or critically injured have not yet been officially disclosed. 
Police had to open fire to control the situation as it spiralled out of control. However, the use of force has drawn criticism, especially after reports emerged that the protest initially involved a small number of people and was largely peaceful before tensions escalated.
The violence also saw incidents of arson, including an attack on the residence of the CEM, which was set on fire by an agitated mob. Parts of the local market area were also reportedly targeted, creating panic among residents. Fire tenders were rushed to the spot, but there were allegations that firefighting efforts were delayed and that water was not immediately available, allowing the flames to spread.
Reacting to the developments, Raijor Dal president and Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi blamed the BJP-led state government for the violence. Gogoi said that around 1 am on the night of the incident, Raijor Dal submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister, warning about the deteriorating situation.
“This is the result of the arbitrary actions of the BJP government,” Gogoi said, alleging that the Home Department had completely failed in its duties. He demanded the resignation of Assam Home Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, holding him responsible for the breakdown of law and order.
Gogoi further alleged that the government was aware that such an incident could take place but failed to take any precautionary measures. “This is a useless government. They knew what was coming, yet no steps were taken to prevent it,” he said. Describing the incident as “shameless,” Gogoi claimed that only 11 or 12 people were protesting and that it was a peaceful demonstration initially.
Gogoi said that the situation worsened around 3 am when police allegedly dismantled the protest and tortured protesters, which angered the crowd and led to further unrest. He also questioned the absence of the CEM during the crucial hours, claiming that when tensions were rising, Tuliram Ronghang was listening to the Prime Minister’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme instead of engaging with the protesters.
“Why did he not come to the protest site? Had he come and spoken to the people, the situation might not have turned violent,” Gogoi said. He further claimed that protesters had even announced on social media their intention to march towards the CEM’s residence, yet the administration failed to act in time to prevent the violence.
Gogoi also criticised the government’s claims of standing with indigenous people. “The Chief Minister says he is with indigenous communities, but look at what is happening on the ground,” he said, adding that both protesters and police personnel should not have been injured if the situation had been handled with care and patience.
Meanwhile, Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi appealed for calm and peace in Karbi Anglong. He said that the district must return to normalcy and urged people to avoid violence. Gogoi also appealed to the government not to provoke or torture people who are protesting and to listen to their demands, including hunger strikes, with patience and sensitivity.
“It is the duty of the government to listen to the people. They must show restraint. We want peace. We do not want people in uniform to be injured, and we do not want protesting citizens to be hurt either,” he said.
