Guwahati, Dec 23 (NationPress) The violent turmoil in Assam’s West Karbi Anglong district has tragically resulted in the deaths of two individuals, triggering a significant security mobilization and intense oversight by the state government.

The atmosphere remains charged as reports of new arson incidents emerged on Tuesday, with authorities working diligently to restore order.

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

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

In an effort to disperse the crowd, police resorted to firing, causing injuries to at least four individuals, which included three protesters and one officer.

Officials indicated that the immediate cause was the police's attempt to clear the area of protesters, which escalated into stone-throwing and widespread arson.

The protesters, representing a variety of political and social groups, contend that the encroachers, primarily from Bihar, have unlawfully occupied reserved grazing areas in both Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong.

In light of the situation, Assam’s Director General of Police, Harmeet Singh, who is present in the affected area, has called for calm and cooperation.

He confirmed that additional security personnel have been stationed in sensitive areas and that senior officials are collaborating with community leaders to ease tensions through dialogue.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed profound sorrow over the fatalities, describing the incident as “deeply painful.”

He assured that the state government will fully support the affected families and provide necessary assistance.

Sarma announced that further security forces will be sent to the Kheroni area starting Wednesday and emphasized that the administration is in continuous communication with stakeholders to restore peace.

“We aim to engage in peaceful discussions and address the root causes. I urge everyone to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation,” Sarma stated, reaffirming the government’s dedication to maintaining law and order as well as safeguarding public and private property.

The Chief Minister also called for cooperation from all segments of society, asserting that peace and stability are vital for the region's development.