Violence erupted in Kheroni, located near the western banks of the Kopili River, on Tuesday as unrest swept through the daily bazaar. Protesters stormed the market, vandalizing shops, smashing windows, looting goods, and leaving debris in their wake.
Eyewitnesses reported that the crowd swelled after Education Minister Ranoj Pegu departed the area, where he had assured protesters of a tripartite meeting with locals and the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC).
As tensions rose, police responded with a lathi charge and fired tear gas to disperse the crowds. Locals witnessed protesters burning tires, blocking roads, and igniting multiple fires, creating thick smoke that engulfed the area. Residents fled in panic, while shopkeepers hastily closed their businesses.
Director General of Police Harmeet Singh arrived to monitor the situation and patrol the streets in an effort to restore calm. He addressed the protesters directly, urging them to cease the violence and stop stone-pelting. Singh revealed that miscreants had set ablaze three motorcycles, including one belonging to a police officer. He warned that strict legal action would be taken against those involved.
Authorities have not yet released an official statement, but reports indicate that several individuals, including security personnel, may have sustained injuries. Prohibitory orders under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) remain in effect, yet hundreds reportedly defied these restrictions and remained on the streets.
Earlier, Minister Pegu stated that Karbi residents had been on a hunger strike since December 6. He attributed the violence to misinformation regarding the “arrest” of some protesters, who were, in fact, taken for medical treatment.
On Monday, police fired shots when a mob rampaged through Kheroni, reportedly torching the old house of former KAAC chief Tuliram Ronghang in Donkamokam, damaging around 15 shops, and attempting to attack a police station.
The situation in Kheroni remains tense and precarious, with further updates anticipated.
Original Source: https://nenow.in/north-east-news/assam/west-karbi-anglong-violence-escalates-in-kheroni-after-ranoj-pegu-leaves.html
Category: Assam,Northeast News,Top News
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Publish Date: 2025-12-23 17:55:00
