Kokrajhar town witnessed tension and sporadic violence on January 11 following protests over the alleged rape of a mentally challenged woman, prompting the district administration to impose prohibitory orders to prevent further escalation of the situation.
According to official sources, the administration enforced Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) after a series of violent incidents were reported from different parts of the town. Security arrangements were tightened, especially in sensitive areas, and additional forces were deployed to maintain law and order.
Reports said that late at night, an old mosque in Kokrajhar town was attacked by a group of people. The attackers allegedly raised religious slogans and vandalised the structure, breaking window panes and doors and causing damage to the property. The incident added to the already tense atmosphere in the town. 
The unrest began after protests erupted over the alleged rape of a mentally challenged woman by a man identified as Rafikul Islam. Demonstrations were held at several locations, which later turned violent in some areas, leading to clashes and damage to public and private property.
During the night, a picnic bus named Ma Sarada was also attacked. The bus was returning from Balajan in Dhubri district to Sarlapara near the India–Bhutan border. Several students travelling on the bus were injured in the attack and were taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Their condition was stated to be stable.
Meanwhile, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad has called for a 12-hour bandh in Kokrajhar town, demanding strict action against those involved in the alleged rape case.
Reacting to the developments, Hagrama Mohilary, Chief Executive Member of the Bodoland Territorial Council, appealed for calm and restraint. He said that the actions of a few individuals should not be used to blame or target an entire community.
“Bad people exist in every community. Identifying such individuals and ensuring they are punished is the responsibility of the administration,” Mohilary said. He added that while those involved in crimes must face strict punishment, it is wrong and unacceptable to hold an entire society responsible for the actions of one or two individuals.
The administration has urged residents to maintain peace and cooperate with authorities as investigations continue and steps are taken to restore normalcy in the town.
