Guwahati, Dec 23 (NationPress) Recent violent unrest in West Karbi Anglong district of Assam has resulted in the tragic deaths of two individuals. This alarming situation has triggered a substantial security response and high-level oversight by the state government. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed profound sorrow over the fatalities, labeling the incident as "deeply painful."

The atmosphere remains charged, with new acts of arson reported on Tuesday as officials hustle to restore normalcy.

The turmoil began in Kheroni Bazaar on Monday when demonstrators, demanding the removal of alleged encroachers from the Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) and Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) lands, clashed with law enforcement.

These protesters, who had been on a hunger strike for 12 days, reportedly set fire to around 15 shops, attacked the local police station, and torched the home of Tuliram Ronghang, the Chief Executive Member of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC).

In reaction, police opened fire to disperse the crowd, resulting in injuries to at least four individuals, including three protesters and one officer.

Authorities stated that the immediate catalyst was a police attempt to clear the demonstrators, which led to stone-throwing and extensive arson.

The protesters, affiliated with various political and social groups, contend that the encroachers, primarily from Bihar, have unlawfully taken over reserved grazing lands in both Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong.

In response, Assam's Director General of Police Harmeet Singh, who is present in the affected region, has urged for calm and cooperation.

He confirmed that additional security forces have been dispatched to sensitive areas and that senior officials are engaging with community leaders to ease tensions through dialogue.

Chief Minister Sarma reiterated his deep concern over the loss of lives, highlighting the government's commitment to supporting affected families and ensuring safety.

He announced the deployment of more security personnel in the Kheroni area starting Wednesday and emphasized that the administration remains in continuous contact with stakeholders to restore peace.

“We aim to initiate a peaceful dialogue to resolve the underlying issues. I urge everyone to maintain calm and refrain from spreading rumors,” Sarma stated, reaffirming the government's dedication to law and order and the protection of both public and private property.

The Chief Minister also called on all community members to collaborate, asserting that peace and stability are crucial for the region's development.