Communal tension erupted in Dhubri district of Assam following an incident where meat was thrown outside a temple. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ordered a "shoot at sight" policy for rioters.
Assam: Recent communal tensions in Assam's Dhubri district have challenged the state's law and order. Following an incident on Sunday where objectionable material (beef) was thrown outside a temple, widespread anger erupted locally. Protests on Monday further escalated the situation, prompting the administration to impose Section 144 and deploy heavy security forces.
Chief Minister Issues Strong Warning
Following the incident, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma adopted a b stance. He posted a video on X (formerly Twitter), stating that a particular communal group in Dhubri is actively trying to damage temples. He clarified that "shoot at sight" orders have been issued to deal with anti-social elements.
CM Sarma stated, "No communal activity of any kind will be tolerated in Dhubri. Strictest action will be taken against those trying to spread tension in society."
"I Will Personally Guard the Temple"
The Chief Minister also stated that, if necessary, he would personally guard the Hanuman temple overnight during the upcoming Eid to prevent any untoward incidents. He said, "This time during Eid, some elements attempted the condemnable act of throwing beef at the Hanuman temple. This is a completely planned conspiracy to spread communal tension."
Dhubri's Controversial History
Dhubri district has been embroiled in controversies before. A statement by BJP Rajya Sabha MP Sudhanshu Trivedi comparing Dhubri to "mini-Bangladesh" caused a political uproar, with the opposition attempting to corner the BJP. The district borders Bangladesh and has long faced issues such as illegal immigration, population imbalance, and communal tension.
Administration Prepares for Strict Action
The state government and district administration have made it clear that the culprits will not be spared. Following the incident, the police have launched an intensive search operation. Suspects are being identified based on CCTV footage and local intelligence. The cyber cell has also been activated to monitor rumors and fake news.
Dhubri's Social Situation and Challenges
Dhubri district's social structure is complex and sensitive. It has a diverse population, and even minor incidents can spark major communal tensions. The act of throwing objectionable material outside the temple is not just a violation of law and order but also a challenge to social harmony.
CM's Zero Tolerance Message
Chief Minister Sarma has been known for his tough stance against anti-social elements in the state. Whether it's drug mafias or extremist organizations, he has always worked on a "zero tolerance" policy. His order in the Dhubri case is an extension of that policy.
Legal Basis of "Shoot at Sight"?
In India, "shoot at sight" orders are issued when law and order completely collapses and the lives of ordinary citizens are in grave danger. This order is usually implemented only with the permission of a magistrate or the Ministry of Home Affairs, instructing security forces to act with the authority to kill any violent rioter. However, this order is only applied in extremely sensitive situations.
