Guwahati, Assam – The Indian Army has been deployed in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam following outbreaks of violence, officials confirmed on Monday. The deployment aims to restore peace and prevent further escalation of conflict in the region, which has seen unrest related to recent eviction drives.
Chief Minister Himanta Sarma attributed the current situation, at least in part, to a stay order issued by the Gauhati High Court halting eviction proceedings. He stated that the stay has created a sense of uncertainty and emboldened individuals who were previously subject to eviction, leading to clashes and unrest. Sarma emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting its land resources and asserted that the evictions were necessary to reclaim encroached areas.
The violence reportedly erupted after a dispute between two groups over land ownership. Local authorities have been struggling to maintain order, prompting the request for military assistance. The exact number of troops deployed has not been officially disclosed, but sources indicate a significant presence to cover vulnerable areas and conduct flag marches.
“The Gauhati High Court’s stay on evictions has unfortunately contributed to the volatile situation in Karbi Anglong,” Sarma said in a press briefing. “While we respect the judiciary, the stay has sent the wrong message and encouraged further encroachment. We will present our case strongly before the court to ensure the eviction process can continue.”
Eviction Drive Background
The eviction drive in Karbi Anglong, initiated several weeks ago, targeted illegal settlements on forest land and government-owned properties. The government claims that these encroachments were a major cause of deforestation and posed a threat to the region’s biodiversity. However, the drive has faced criticism from various organizations, who argue that it has displaced thousands of people, many of whom are from marginalized communities.
Opposition parties have accused the government of using excessive force during the evictions and failing to provide adequate rehabilitation measures for those affected. They have also questioned the legality of the evictions, alleging that proper procedures were not followed.
The situation remains tense, with sporadic incidents of violence reported even after the army’s deployment. Authorities are urging residents to remain calm and cooperate with security forces. A curfew has been imposed in several areas of Karbi Anglong to prevent further gatherings and maintain law and order.
The state government is closely monitoring the situation and has assured that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure the safety and security of the people. Efforts are also underway to facilitate dialogue between the conflicting groups and find a peaceful resolution to the land dispute. The long-term implications of the High Court stay and the ongoing tensions remain to be seen, but the immediate priority is to restore normalcy and prevent further loss of life.
Local administration is working to provide relief to those affected by the violence, including setting up temporary shelters and distributing essential supplies. The government has also announced a compensation package for the families of those who have lost their lives or sustained injuries in the clashes.
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