AHRC notice to Assam Govt on police firing

GUWAHATI: The Assam Human Rights Commission (AHRC) has issued a notice to the state government seeking a report on the killing of three persons in police firing at Hatsingimari in Dhubri district on February 15.

Taking suo motu cognisance of media reports about the incident, the AHRC issued the notice to the Chief Secretary to submit the report within 45 days.

Sources in the Commission said instruction was also given that an inquiry into the incident be conducted by a Commissioner or Secretary level officer.

The AHRC stated that delay in counting of votes polled at the Hatshingimari panchayat election booth, under Mancacher subdivision in the district, reportedly led to tension among supporters of candidates and stones were pelted on security and polling personnel.

The security personnel opened fire to control the mob, killing three persons, the AHRC said quoting media reports.

About 11 others, including four police personnel, were also injured during the clash that broke out later, it added.

In another directive to the Kamrup district Deputy Commissioner, the AHRC has asked for a probe into a food poisoning incident at Khetri near Guwahati where around 200 persons, including school children and their parents, had fallen ill after eating prasad after Saraswati Puja at a local school.