NEW DELHI: The situation in India’s northeastern state of Assam has once again turned tense following violent clashes between police and protesters in the Karbi Anglong district.
At least two people were killed and more than 50 others injured, including around 40 police personnel, according to local reports.
The unrest erupted during protests against alleged encroachments on tribal lands. Demonstrators staged intense protests, during which shops were set on fire and the house of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader was torched. Protesters also reportedly pelted stones at police forces.
To disperse the crowd, police resorted to tear gas shelling and baton charges, leading to violent confrontations. Following the clashes, authorities imposed a curfew in the affected areas and suspended internet services to prevent the spread of unrest.
Assam Chief Minister has ordered the deployment of additional security forces to restore law and order. According to Indian media, protesters are demanding protection of their ancestral and tribal lands, accusing the authorities of failing to prevent illegal encroachments.
