What Led to the Army's Deployment in Assam's Kokrajhar District?
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Synopsis
The recent outbreak of violence in Kokrajhar, Assam, has led to the deployment of the Army to maintain order. The situation escalated due to a tragic incident involving members of the Bodo and Adivasi communities, resulting in two deaths. Authorities are actively working to restore peace and prevent further unrest.
Key Takeaways
- Deployment of the Army in Kokrajhar district.
- Two fatalities reported due to mob violence.
- Joint patrols conducted with local administration.
- Relief camps established for displaced residents.
- Prohibitory orders imposed to maintain order.
Guwahati, Jan 21 (NationPress) The Army has been stationed in sensitive zones of Kokrajhar district in Assam following violent clashes that resulted in two fatalities and triggered incidents of arson and public disturbances, as reported by officials on Wednesday. Authorities have intensified efforts to avert further escalation of the situation.
Defence sources confirmed that Army units conducted joint night patrols alongside district administration personnel in Karigaon and surrounding areas on Tuesday night.
A flag march was arranged for Wednesday as part of initiatives to restore public confidence, while four Army units remain deployed in the district to support civil authorities in upholding law and order.
Current reports indicate that the situation is under control, with enhanced security measures also implemented in the adjacent Chirang district.
Earlier, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that all necessary provisions were made for the Army's involvement, and the Rapid Action Force had already been dispatched to the impacted areas following the outbreak of violence.
The unrest reportedly ignited late on Monday when a vehicle carrying three individuals from the Bodo community allegedly collided with two members of the Adivasi community on Mansingh Road, near the Karigaon outpost, according to a home department official.
Local residents allegedly assaulted the vehicle's occupants, leading to the vehicle being set ablaze. One individual died on the scene, while another succumbed to injuries the following day.
Three additional individuals injured in the incident are currently receiving treatment at local hospitals. Tensions escalated again on Tuesday as members from both communities obstructed the national highway near the Karigaon outpost, ignited tires, and purportedly set fire to a government facility while also attacking the local police outpost.
In response, police employed baton charges and fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd, resulting in injuries to several individuals, including police personnel.
In the wake of these events, the district administration has established two relief camps at Karigaon High School and Gwajanpuri Amanpara High School as residents evacuated their homes out of fear of further violence.
Prohibitory orders have been enacted throughout Kokrajhar district under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
As a precaution, mobile Internet and data services have been suspended in both Kokrajhar and Chirang districts to mitigate the spread of rumors and maintain public order.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach this situation with a balanced perspective. The unrest in Kokrajhar reflects deep-rooted social tensions that require careful handling. The deployment of the Army is a significant step towards restoring peace, but long-term solutions must be sought to address the underlying issues between communities.
NationPress
23/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the violence in Kokrajhar?
The violence was reportedly triggered by an incident where a vehicle carrying members of the Bodo community collided with two Adivasi individuals.
What measures are being taken by authorities?
Authorities have deployed the Army and the Rapid Action Force, conducted flag marches, and established relief camps for affected residents.
What is the current situation in Kokrajhar?
The situation is reportedly under control, though security measures have been heightened in Kokrajhar and neighboring Chirang districts.
Are there any restrictions on communication?
Yes, mobile Internet and data services have been suspended in Kokrajhar and Chirang districts to prevent the spread of rumors.
How are injured individuals being cared for?
Those injured in the clashes are receiving treatment at local hospitals.
