The President of the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), Utpal Sarma, has expressed concern over the violent situation that took place in Karbi Anglong, urging all sides to step back from violence and resolve the issue through talks.
Reacting to the developments, Sarma said the student organisation was deeply worried about the unrest in the hill district. He stated that one thing must be made absolutely clear; the interests of the Karbi tribal community living in Karbi Anglong, along with other indigenous people of the region, have to be protected at all costs. “There is no question of ‘if’, ‘but’ or ‘however’ on this matter,” he said.
At the same time, the AASU president appealed to all sections involved in the agitation to maintain restraint and avoid violence. He also cautioned the government against trying to suppress movements through force. “Firing and repression will not solve the problem. Suppression will not work. The only way forward is dialogue,” Sarma said, adding that meaningful discussion was necessary to address long-standing issues and prevent further loss of life. 
Meanwhile, the situation in Karbi Anglong district turned tense following violent incidents that erupted after protests escalated late at night. The unrest led to arson, police firing and the death of at least one person, according to sources. The violence included an attack on the residence of Tuliram Ronghang, the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council.
Sources said one person succumbed to injuries while undergoing treatment at a hospital. Two others were critically injured during police action and remain under medical care, while another injured person is battling for life. In addition, two more individuals sustained injuries and are being treated. The identities of the deceased and the critically injured have not yet been officially disclosed.
Police reportedly opened fire after the situation went out of control. However, the use of force has drawn criticism, with allegations that the protest initially involved a small number of people and was largely peaceful before tensions escalated.
Incidents of arson were also reported from the area. Apart from the attack on the CEM’s residence, parts of the local market were allegedly targeted, triggering panic among residents. Fire tenders were rushed to the spot, but there were claims that firefighting efforts were delayed due to the unavailability of water, allowing the fire to spread.
Opposition leaders have reacted sharply to the incident. Raijor Dal president and Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi blamed the BJP-led state government for the violence, calling it a complete failure of administration and policing. Gogoi said that around 1 am on the night of the incident, Raijor Dal had submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister warning about the worsening situation.
“This is the result of the arbitrary actions of the BJP government,” Gogoi said, alleging that the Home Department had failed in its responsibility. He demanded the resignation of Assam Home Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, holding him responsible for the breakdown of law and order.
Gogoi further claimed that the government was aware of the possibility of unrest but did not take timely steps to prevent it. He alleged that the situation worsened in the early hours when police action angered protesters and led to further chaos. Questioning the role of the administration, Gogoi said better communication and engagement at the right time could have prevented the violence.
