Cotton University Union President Freed, But Released With Conditions

Deep Shekhar Kalita, President of the Cotton University Students’ Union (Chatra Ekta Sabha) and a resident of Sitanath Brahma Choudhury (SNBC) Hostel, has been released by the police with instructions to appear before authorities as required.

His release comes a day after his detention in connection with an assault case reported at Panbazar Police Station on Sunday. Kalita was initially arrested following an incident that occurred on the night of November 26 at Hostel Road, Panbazar.

Reports indicate that the altercation began when a person claiming to be a police officer was involved in a minor accident with a former Cotton University student.

During the confrontation, some SNBC Hostel students came outside to intervene. When the former student attempted to enter the hostel, residents—including Kalita—allegedly tried to prevent unauthorized entry. Based on this, a case was registered against Kalita and others, leading to his arrest.

Following his detention, tensions escalated as Cotton University students staged a spontaneous protest near Panbazar Police Station, demanding Kalita’s immediate release. Hostel students claimed that Kalita had no involvement in the assault case and was picked up unfairly while “having evening tea.” They further alleged that a senior police officer, reportedly under the influence of alcohol, had assaulted Kalita and that the case was being falsely framed against him. Students called on city police to release him and take action against the officer involved.

Police sources, however, stated that Kalita was detained based on the assault case registered three days earlier on College Road, alleging that he had attacked an on-duty patrolling police officer.

Kalita’s release has temporarily eased tensions, but students continue to demand a fair investigation and accountability for the officers involved.

Also Read: Cotton Boils Over: 500+ Students Protest Govt’s Six-Community ST Proposal