Kheroni, Dec 24: Violence in Assam’s West Karbi Anglong district turned deadly on Monday evening, with two persons killed amid continuing unrest in the Kheroni area, officials said.
The deceased have been identified as Deepak Dey and Saurabh Dey. Their deaths mark a serious escalation in the violence that has gripped the region over the past few days, during which repeated incidents of arson and attacks have been reported during protests.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said he is closely monitoring the deteriorating law and order situation in the district and described the loss of lives as “deeply painful”.
“It is deeply painful that two persons lost their lives during today’s unrest. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families,” Sarma said in a statement posted on his official X handle.
The chief minister announced that additional security forces would be deployed in the violence-hit Kheroni area on Wednesday to ensure peace and prevent further escalation.
He said the state government is in constant touch with all stakeholders and is making efforts to restore normalcy through dialogue.
“We are in constant touch with all concerned to restore normalcy and resolve issues through dialogue,” Sarma said, reiterating the government’s commitment to handling the situation in a peaceful and democratic manner.
Assam Director General of Police Harmeet Singh, IPS, who has been camping in the affected area, appealed to protesters to maintain restraint and cooperate with the administration.
He said additional security personnel have been deployed at sensitive locations to prevent any further deterioration of the situation.
The DGP said senior police officials are engaging directly with agitating groups to defuse tensions and restore calm. Warning of strict action, Singh said those involved in arson, violence and the killings would be identified and proceeded against in accordance with the law.
Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Suraksha Sanhita remain in force across Kheroni and adjoining areas, with a heavy security presence deployed to prevent gatherings and further incidents of violence.
Officials said the situation remains tense but under control, and efforts are underway through enhanced security measures and dialogue to bring normalcy back to the area.
