A volatile situation continues to grip Assam’s Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts after violent protests over alleged illegal encroachments on tribal land claimed at least two lives and left dozens injured, prompting internet shutdowns, curfews and heightened security operations in the sensitive hill region.
Local authorities report that the unrest erupted on December 22, 2025, when indigenous communities — notably members of the Karbi tribe and allied groups — intensified demonstrations demanding the eviction of alleged non‑tribal settlers from Village Grazing Reserves (VGRs) and Professional Grazing Reserves (PGRs), lands protected under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Violent Clashes Trigger Security Clampdown
The movement, initially peaceful and highlighted by an indefinite hunger strike, turned violent when a police clearance drive at protest sites in Kheroni met fierce resistance. Vandalism, arson and clashes with security forces rapidly escalated the situation. Reports indicate that:
- Protesters set fire to the residence of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) Chief Executive Member, a significant escalation that triggered further unrest.
- At least two individuals were killed — including a differently‑abled man caught in a building fire — and over 45 people were injured, among them dozens of policemen.
- Demonstrators reportedly used crude weapons such as bows and arrows, stones, and crude explosives against law enforcement personnel.
In response, authorities imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyay Suraksha Sanhita, effectively banning public assembly and restricting movement to curb further escalation. Night curfews have also been enforced in both districts.
Internet Suspension and Public Safety Measures
To prevent the spread of misinformation and protect public order, the Assam government ordered the suspension of internet and mobile data services in Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong.
Security forces, including local police and paramilitary contingents, have been deployed extensively, conducting flag marches and heightened patrols aimed at restoring calm. Assam’s Director General of Police has personally overseen the operations from field command posts.
Despite these measures, sporadic violence has continued. Fresh clashes saw vehicles and structures torched and authorities deploying tear gas and lathi charges to disperse unruly crowds.
Root Causes: Land Rights, Identity and Sixth Schedule Safeguards
The underlying cause of the unrest lies in long‑standing land rights disputes. Indigenous groups argue that protected tribal land — safeguarded under the Sixth Schedule — has been illegally occupied by outsiders, undermining tribal autonomy and livelihoods. Attempts at eviction and court stays on such moves have created political and social fault lines in the region.
Analysts note that these tensions reflect broader issues of identity, land rights and constitutional protection for tribal regions in Northeast India, where demographic shifts have increasingly become flashpoints.
Political Reactions and Calls for Dialogue
Political leaders have urged restraint. Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed deep concern over the loss of life and is actively monitoring the situation, promising support for affected families and advocating tripartite talks between government, protest leaders and community representatives.
Opposition figures have called for sensitive handling of the crisis, emphasizing the need for dialogue and peaceful negotiation over forceful suppression.
Outlook: Fragile Calm and Path to Resolution
As of December 24, security agencies report no fresh large‑scale violence, though tensions remain high and normal life disrupted. Authorities continue to balance law enforcement measures with efforts to initiate peaceful talks, signaling that long‑term stability in Karbi Anglong will depend as much on political and legal resolution of core grievances as on the immediate restoration of order.
Key Developments at a Glance
- Deaths: 2 confirmed
- Injuries: 45+ including police personnel
- Security Measures: Curfew, Section 163 BNSS prohibitory orders
- Internet: Suspended in affected districts
- Cause: Dispute over alleged illegal encroachment on tribal grazing lands
- Response: Dialogue initiatives underway
