Assam: The Assam State Human Rights Commission (AHRC) has initiated suo motu cognizance of the tragic death of Congress worker Advocate Mridul Islam during the “Raj Bhavan Chalo” protest in Guwahati on December 19, 2024.
The protest, organized by the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), was part of a nationwide demonstration against several issues, including the implementation of smart meters, alleged corruption involving the Adani Group, the ongoing Manipur crisis, and the proposed “One Nation, One Election” Bill. Thousands of Congress supporters, led by prominent leaders such as APCC President Bhupen Borah, Leader of the Opposition Debabrata Saikia, Working President Jakir Hussain Sikdar, and senior leader Ripun Bora, participated in the protest.
The situation escalated when the authorities deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd, causing adverse effects on many protesters, including the leaders. Additionally, three city-based journalists—Amarendra Deka, Raju Bora, and Ajay Sarma—were also affected by the tear gas, suffering from dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. The journalists were treated at Guwahati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).
In response to the incident, the AHRC has directed the District Magistrate of Kamrup (M) and the Commissioner of Police, Guwahati City, to submit detailed reports along with supporting documents. The commission has scheduled a review of the case for February 28, 2024, to assess the situation and ensure accountability.
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