Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has launched a comprehensive security reaction in Dhubri district following a series of communal incidents, including the seizure of beef at Hindu sacred places just after Eid-Ul-Zuha. These occurrences caused widespread unrest and communal tension in the sensitive border district, necessitating immediate and dramatic government intervention.
Chief Minister Sarma paid many visits to Dhubri, personally examining the current peace and order situation with top officials such as the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and local law enforcement leaders.
During these examinations, he emphasized a zero-tolerance stance for communal violence and anti-social elements. Over 150 people have been arrested in connection with the disturbances, and the putative mastermind behind the provocations has been identified but remains at large.
To prevent further escalation, the district administration issued partial curfews and implemented shoot-at-sight orders at night. Additional paramilitary forces, such as the Rapid Action Force and the Central Reserve Police Force, were dispatched to assist local authorities. Prohibitory orders were initially imposed and then revoked as the situation stabilized, but a heightened security presence continues in critical areas.
Recognizing the frequency of communal disturbances and the district’s strategic importance along the Indo-Bangladesh border, the Assam government is actively considering the creation of a permanent Indian Army camp in Dhubri. Chief Minister Sarma has remarked that conversations with the right authorities are already underway, and he believes that such a base will considerably enhance the district’s security apparatus and contribute to long-term stability.
Sarma has called for communal harmony, urging all communities to respect one another’s feelings and coexist harmoniously. Local peace committees, comprised of Hindu and Muslim community leaders, have been formed to promote discussion and peace. To prevent the repetition of violence, intelligence and police operations have been reinforced in key sites, with a particular emphasis on monitoring external influences and organised organizations claimed to be attempting to disrupt the district.
The Chief Minister has accused external actors of involvement, including organizations that promote divisive agendas and a so-called “beef mafia” that is suspected of planning provocative actions. Investigations into these groups are underway, and directions have been issued to arrest people involved in illicit cattle trade and communal provocations.
Normalcy has mostly been restored in Dhubri, although the administration remains alert. The administration is actively monitoring the situation, with continuous efforts to catch fleeing individuals and address underlying land-related concerns that may be contributing to local tensions. The Chief Minister has emphasized the government’s commitment to sustaining peace, adding that it will not back down against communal groups and will continue to take strict measures against any attempts to disrupt public order.
The Assam government’s multifaceted approach to Dhubri includes immediate law enforcement action, the proposed establishment of a permanent Indian Army base, community engagement, increased intelligence operations, and a firm stance against both internal and external threats to communal harmony and security in the district. These steps aim to assure long-term stability and safety for all Dhubri people.
