BNS Section 163 imposed in West Karbi Anglong as curbs on movement, gatherings and public activities take effect

A highly volatile and tense situation has gripped Kheroni and surrounding areas of West Karbi Anglong district following violent protests over the long-pending PGR–VGR eviction issue. The agitation escalated into widespread violence, with protesters resorting to arson at multiple locations, leaving the region on edge.

According to reports, incidents of arson were recorded across Kheroni and Hamren, while several houses were set ablaze in Donkamokam. Vehicles parked along the highway were also torched. Shops, residential houses, and other properties were targeted, causing extensive damage and spreading panic among residents.

In view of the deteriorating law-and-order situation, the district administration imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) across West Karbi Anglong. Under the prohibitory orders, processions in public places have been banned, gatherings of more than five people are prohibited, and the use of loudspeakers or bikes without prior permission has been disallowed. Restrictions have also been imposed on public speeches, and the display of banners and posters has been banned.

The prohibitory orders are in force from 5 pm to 6 am, during which no individual is allowed to step out. Night-time movement of private vehicles has also been prohibited. Despite these measures, authorities admitted that the situation remains largely out of control, with some describing the prevailing conditions as similar to unrest seen in Nepal and Bangladesh.

Earlier in the day, violent protesters allegedly set fire to the residence of the Chief Executive Member (CEM), further intensifying tensions. In the evening, the residence of Tuliram Ronghang was also torched. To disperse the violent crowd and regain control, police were forced to fire shots in the air. Clashes between protesters and security personnel left three people injured, including one police officer.

The unrest stems from a prolonged movement demanding the eviction of alleged non-Karbi settlers from Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) and Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) lands. Protesters have been demanding immediate eviction, but the administration has been unable to act due to a stay imposed by the High Court. An indefinite hunger strike had also been launched over the issue, and the Karbi Anglong administration had invited the hunger strikers for talks scheduled for today.

However, the situation took a dramatic turn when police, at around 3 am, removed protesters from the hunger strike site. Soon after this action, violence erupted in Kheroni, with thousands of people pouring onto the streets in protest.

The developments are being closely monitored by the state leadership. Director General of Police (DGP) and Minister Ranoj Pegu are overseeing the situation on the ground. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said he is constantly monitoring the developments, adding that the DGP is present in the area and Minister Ranoj Pegu has been sent to Kheroni to assess the situation firsthand.

Commenting on the agitation, Tuliram Ronghang stated that nothing could be done in a matter that is currently sub judice before the court, a remark that protesters have described as indifferent.

As tensions continue to simmer, authorities remain on high alert, with efforts underway to restore peace and prevent further escalation in the violence-hit district.

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