No unrest in Dhubri, yet shoot-at-sight orders continue: Assam CM

Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said that the “shoot-at-sight” orders currently in effect in Dhubri will remain in force until the end of the Durga Puja festival, which is scheduled from September 28 to October 2.

The directive, applicable during nighttime hours, was first imposed on June 13 following incidents of communal unrest in Dhubri town, near the Bangladesh border.

Speaking on the sidelines of an event in Kokrajhar, Sarma clarified that there is currently no unrest or incidents of violence in Dhubri, but warned that anyone attempting to create trouble during Durga Puja would face severe consequences.

The communal tensions in Dhubri had erupted on June 8, a day after Bakri Eid, after the remains of an animal were discovered near a Hindu temple. The chief minister claimed the remains were part of a cow’s head.

“The day after Bakri Eid, some persons kept a severed cow head in front of a Hanuman temple,” Sarma said. “Representatives of both communities met thereafter, a peace committee meeting was held, and the conflict seemed to have been resolved. The next day, another animal head was found in front of the temple, which sparked violence.”

Widespread protests followed on June 8, with several residents blocking a road near the temple, shouting slogans, and burning tyres. They also prevented the police from removing the animal remains, insisting it must remain untouched until those responsible were identified and arrested.

The situation was brought under control within two days, and over 150 people were arrested in connection with the violence.