Assam: Tensions rise after violence erupts during eviction drive in Chirang’s Runikhata Forest Range

Guwahati: Tensions are running high after violence broke out during an eviction drive in Runikhata Forest Range in Chirang district of Assam.

It was alleged large scale encroachment took place and forest guards cleared the encroached land. Some encroachers were brought to the police station when rumour spread that police had beaten up the women who went to police to seek release of the men.

Chairman of the Adivasi Development Board, Subhash Tirkey, termed the violence “unfortunate”. “The incident that took place in Chirang on Friday at the Runikhata Forest Range is unfortunate. The issue could have been resolved through discussions and deliberation, and there have been misunderstandings.”


Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) Chief Hagrama Mohilary, who visited the violence-hit area on Saturday said the council would seek a detailed report from the Forest Department and forward it to the Assam government for further legal action.

He said an inquiry would be conducted into the incident. The Forest Department, being directly involved in the eviction drive, must submit a factual report. Following the violence, mobile internet and data services remain suspended in Chirang and neighbouring Kokrajhar districts.