Guwahati, 13th September: Assam Police have launched an inquiry into a violent attack on police personnel and government officials during an eviction drive at Kachutali in Sonapur, which left several injured. Director General of Police (DGP) G P Singh visited the site and confirmed that police and officials were assaulted by illegal occupants armed with lathis and bamboo sticks.
The eviction, aimed at clearing 200 bighas of disputed land under a tribal belt, had been announced a week prior, according to G P Singh. The land is reserved for tribal communities, but the current occupants reportedly do not fall under this category. Despite prior warnings, the situation escalated when occupants attacked the authorities with stones and sticks.
DGP Singh stated that 22-23 police personnel and administrative officials were injured, with police vehicles also damaged. Shots were fired to control the mob, leading to two fatalities. A case has been registered, and an investigation is underway to uncover any conspiracy behind the violence.
In the aftermath, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma indicated that the eviction drive was proceeding peacefully until opposition from Congress party members fueled tensions, resulting in the violent clash.