Assam’s Dhubri Under Strict Shoot-at-Sight Orders for Durga Puja

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Tuesday that the night-time shoot-at-sight orders, in place in Dhubri district since June 13, 2025, will remain enforced during the upcoming Durga Puja festival, scheduled from September 28 to October 2. The decision, aimed at maintaining peace in the communally sensitive border district, underscores the government’s commitment to protecting the minority Hindu community and curbing potential unrest.

Speaking on the sidelines of a program in Kokrajhar, Sarma emphasized that the orders are a precautionary measure to deter troublemakers. “The shoot-at-sight orders have not been withdrawn and will continue. Anyone attempting to create unrest in Dhubri will face severe consequences,” he warned. While no fresh incidents of violence have been reported recently, the Chief Minister stressed the need for heightened vigilance during the festival, a significant celebration for the Sanatan Dharma community, which constitutes a minority in Dhubri, where Muslims make up approximately 74% of the population according to the 2011 Census.

The orders were first imposed following communal tensions sparked by provocative acts after Bakrid on June 7. On June 8, a cow’s skull was found outside a Hanuman Temple in Dhubri town, prompting appeals for peace from both Hindu and Muslim community leaders. However, tensions escalated the next day when another cow’s head was placed at the same temple, accompanied by stone-pelting incidents. Sarma, who visited Dhubri on June 13, announced the shoot-at-sight directive to curb further disturbances, citing alleged attempts by communal groups to destabilize the region. He also pointed to a group called ‘Nabin Bangla,’ which reportedly campaigned to annex Dhubri into Bangladesh, further fueling tensions.

Also Read: Sarma: ‘Bangladeshis Not Welcome in Assam’

During a follow-up visit ten days later, Sarma revealed that over 150 individuals, including 11 from outside Assam with prior criminal cases, had been arrested in a crackdown on anti-social elements. The Chief Minister also raised concerns about illegal cattle slaughter during Bakrid, alleging that meat parts were deliberately scattered across the state to incite unrest. “We are fully committed to enforcing law and order and defeating communal forces,” he asserted, vowing to personally monitor the situation in Dhubri during future festivals if necessary.

The extension of the shoot-at-sight orders has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters argue it’s a necessary step to ensure safety during Durga Puja, while critics warn of potential escalation or misuse in the politically charged atmosphere. With central security forces deployed and the government maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, Dhubri braces for a tense but secure festive season.

Also Read: Assam Cabinet: 500 MW Power Deal Approved!