Dalgaon — A simmering conflict over illegal sand mining in Assam’s Darrang district turned violent on Friday evening, when a fierce confrontation broke out between alleged sand mafias and local residents at the Shilbari sand quarry. The situation escalated further as police personnel attempting to restore order were attacked, leaving four officers injured.
Among the injured was Sub-Inspector Rupankar Das, who along with three colleagues, sustained injuries during the chaos and was rushed to Mangaldoi Civil Hospital for immediate medical attention. The attack prompted the urgent arrival of reinforcements led by the Additional Superintendent of Police, who has since taken charge of stabilizing the situation on-site.
Authorities confirmed that the unrest has now been brought under control. However, a manhunt is actively underway to trace and arrest those responsible for the violent assault on the police team. The incident has once again brought into sharp focus the unchecked and hazardous activities surrounding illegal sand mining in the region.
For years, local organizations and concerned citizens have voiced strong opposition to rampant, unregulated sand extraction from the Dhansiri River, citing both environmental degradation and rising criminal influence. Friday’s violence has not only reignited these long-standing concerns but has also intensified calls for stricter enforcement and accountability in quarry operations. Community leaders are now urging immediate government intervention to ensure that such lawlessness does not recur.
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