Guwahati: A shocking incident of vigilantism has rocked Assam’s Golaghat district, where two young men, including a minor, were subjected to a barbaric assault and torture allegedly by a group led by three brothers. The horrifying episode, which unfolded in the Gelabil area of Sarupathar, has sparked widespread outrage after a video of the attack went viral on social media, prompting swift action from the BJP and the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU).
Police sources confirmed that the victims were not only mercilessly beaten but also endured inhumane torture, with salt and chilli water allegedly poured into their wounds. The assault was reportedly carried out over suspicions of theft. Both victims are currently recovering in the hospital. The brutal attack has once again thrown the spotlight on the unchecked power exercised by individuals with affiliations to political and student organisations in the state.
Following the public outcry, the BJP and AASU wasted no time in suspending the two main accused from their posts. Raju Shreshtha, the BJP Borpathar Mandal’s general secretary, and Shasanka Shreshtha, the AASU Sarupathar unit president, have been stripped of their positions. The third brother, Ranjit Shreshtha, is currently on the run, along with his siblings. Police have initiated a manhunt for the trio, while one person from the mob, Kamal Gogoi, has been arrested.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has assured the public of strict action, stating that a thorough investigation will be conducted to ensure the culprits are punished. The incident has cast a dark shadow on the local community and highlighted the urgent need for addressing the issue of mob justice and the abuse of power by those with political and social clout.