Unrest erupted in Assam’s West Karbi Anglong district on Monday as protests demanding the removal of alleged encroachers escalated into violence. Demonstrators set fire to the ancestral home of Tuliram Ronghang, a local BJP leader and chief executive member of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), while throwing stones and attacking security forces. Several houses and public property, including a school bus, were damaged during the clashes.

The protests center on long-standing demands to remove settlers from Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) and Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) lands. These lands are designated for community and commercial grazing, which are vital for local livestock and livelihoods. Eviction notices were issued by the KAAC in February 2024 but have been temporarily halted due to a petition in the Gauhati High Court.

Violence intensified after police detained a few protesters on Monday morning. A large crowd then marched towards Dongkamukam, confronting authorities and setting fire to the BJP leader’s home. Blank gunfire was used by police to control the mob, resulting in injuries to three protesters and several security personnel.

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In response, the district administration imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyay Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), enforcing strict prohibitory measures. The order, issued by District Magistrate Nirola Phangchopi, aims to prevent anti-social elements from inciting ethnic or communal tensions and to safeguard lives and property in the district.

The restrictions prohibit gatherings of five or more people, movement of private vehicles between 5:00 pm and 6:00 am, public rallies, dharnas, and torch processions. Firearms, firecrackers, inflammatory speeches, and use of loudspeakers without prior permission are also banned. Police, military personnel, officials on duty, and individuals facing medical emergencies are exempted.

Despite the unrest, educational institutions, government and private offices remain operational, and state-level and national-level examinations will continue as scheduled. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of residents.

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