The Assam government has deployed army personnel in the West Karbi Anglong district following reports of violence between two communities. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, prompted a swift security response to control the situation.
Incident Details and Immediate Response
The violence erupted in the West Karbi Anglong district on December 24, 2024. According to officials, the clash involved individuals from two different communities, leading to tensions in the area. In response to the deteriorating law and order situation, the state administration called in the army to assist the local police and paramilitary forces already present.
The army columns were deployed as a precautionary measure to prevent any further escalation of violence. Senior police officials were immediately sent to the spot to assess and manage the situation. The combined forces of the army, police, and central paramilitary troops have been conducting flag marches in sensitive areas to restore public confidence and maintain peace.
Chief Minister's Assurance on Normalcy
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed the media regarding the incident. He confirmed the deployment of security forces but was quick to assert that the situation was under control. "The situation is absolutely normal now," stated CM Sarma, emphasizing that the administration had acted promptly to contain the violence.
The Chief Minister detailed the government's proactive steps, which included imposing strict curfew measures in the affected regions to curb movement and prevent further clashes. He commended the rapid action of the police and security forces, which he credited for bringing the situation back to normal within hours.
Ongoing Measures and Investigation
While asserting calm, the Chief Minister acknowledged that the underlying causes of the tension are being thoroughly investigated. Authorities are working to identify and apprehend those responsible for instigating the violence. The police have registered cases and launched operations to gather evidence and question suspects.
The state government has urged citizens to maintain peace and not to pay heed to any rumors circulating on social media or through other channels. Officials have warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found spreading misinformation or attempting to disrupt communal harmony.
The deployment of the army, though a significant step, is viewed as a temporary measure to ensure a robust security presence during a volatile period. The forces are expected to remain until the local administration is confident that stability has been permanently restored and the risk of fresh violence has passed.
This incident in West Karbi Anglong has drawn attention to the ongoing challenges of maintaining inter-community harmony in certain regions of Assam. The state government's handling of the situation is being closely watched, with an emphasis on both immediate security and long-term peace-building initiatives.
