Army Deployed in Karbi Anglong, Assam to Contain Violence Over Grazing Land Dispute

New Delhi: Tensions flared again in Karbi Anglong, Assam, after the death of a 25-year-old differently-abled man, prompting the deployment of the Indian Army to restore order. Army units conducted flag marches to reassure locals and prevent further unrest. Assam Police Chief confirmed that the situation is now under control, and authorities have appealed for peace.

Violence Claims Two Lives

The recent unrest claimed the lives of Suraj De, a differently-abled resident, and Chingthi Timung, a member of the local Karbi community who was reportedly hit by police gunfire during efforts to control the violence. Over 60 police personnel, including senior officers, sustained injuries in the clashes.

Immediate Trigger: Hunger Strike Over Grazing Lands

The current violence stems from a hunger strike lasting over two weeks in Felangpi, West Karbi Anglong, demanding the removal of alleged “encroachers” from Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) and Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) lands under the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC). The protesters, mostly indigenous Karbi, have long claimed these lands are being illegally occupied by settlers from Bihar, Bengal, and Nepal. The situation escalated after authorities attempted to move the hunger strikers for health reasons, which was misinterpreted by locals as an arrest.

Historical Context of PGR and VGR Lands

Karbi Anglong, a tribal-dominated hilly district, falls under the KAAC, established under Schedule VI of the Constitution. PGR and VGR lands, originating from colonial times, are designated for livestock grazing to support the livelihoods of local communities.

Karbi Community and History of Militancy

The Karbi community, one of Assam’s major tribal groups, has a history of armed insurgency, ethnic violence, and extortion, particularly since the late 1980s. Earlier demands included the creation of a separate state, though they later accepted autonomy under KAAC. Encroachment on grazing lands has been a recurring source of unrest.

Legal and Administrative Backdrop

In February 2024, following prolonged protests by Karbi groups, the KAAC Chief Executive Member and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s close aide, Tuliram Ronghang, announced the removal of alleged encroachers from grazing lands. However, disputes persisted as a Bihari Nonia community group petitioned President Draupadi Murmu to legalize settlements in West Karbi Anglong. The current unrest erupted after protesters set fire to Ronghang’s ancestral home, angered by court delays in eviction orders.

Security Measures

In response, the Assam government suspended mobile internet services, deployed additional police and CRPF units, and ensured flag marches by army units across affected areas. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.