Tensions flared in Chirang district of Assam, situated on the India-Bhutan border, as an eviction operation targeting alleged encroachments on reserved forest land sparked violent confrontations between forest officials and Adivasi protesters. This unrest unfolded following a late-night incident where 25 Adivasis were detained by forest personnel for reportedly encroaching on the Ripu-Chirang Reserve Forest.
The situation escalated sharply when a group of locals, primarily consisting of women, gathered outside the Runikhata Forest Range Office, demanding the release of their detained community members. Forest officials attempted to disperse the crowd without violence; however, reports from the scene indicated that some protesters claimed they were assaulted by the officials, which further fueled the anger of the crowd.
By Friday morning, the protests had intensified, with a larger assembly of demonstrators reportedly vandalizing the forest office. Eyewitnesses claimed that protesters set fire to at least four vehicles belonging to the forest department and attempted to ignite the office building itself. The arrival of police to manage the situation only exacerbated tensions, leading to baton charges on the protesters. Allegations emerged that forest personnel resorted to gunfire to regain control, resulting in injuries to over 30 individuals, mostly among the police forces.
In the aftermath of the violence, the Assam government took immediate action by suspending internet and data services across Chirang and Kokrajhar districts, both of which fall within the Bodoland Territorial Region. This measure aimed to prevent the spread of misinformation and maintain public order, as tensions remained high and the potential for further unrest loomed.
The protests were organized by the All Adivasi Students’ Association and the All Santal Students’ Union, who voiced concerns over the perceived heavy-handedness of the state in dealing with indigenous communities. They argue that the eviction drives disproportionately affect Adivasis, threatening their livelihoods and homes in the region. The incident has sparked discussions around land rights, indigenous identity, and state authority, as the voices of marginalized communities continue to resonate amidst the upheaval.
