Tuliram Ronghang’s house set ablaze as hunger strike over grazing land eviction turns violent in West Karbi Anglong

Situation turns violent in Kheroni:

The situation in Kheroni, West Karbi Anglong, has turned extremely volatile. Police opened fire on protesters in an attempt to control the escalating unrest. Three protesters were injured in the firing, while one police officer was reported to be seriously injured.

Clashes broke out between the police and protesters, further worsening the law-and-order situation.

KACC CEM Tuliram Ronghang's house set on fire:
 
Amid the unrest, incidents of arson were reported near the residence of KACC Chief Executive Member Tuliram Ronghang. Later, the residence itself was allegedly set on fire, with hundreds of protesters accused of torching the house of the prominent Karbi leader.

There are also reports that several non-Karbi houses were set ablaze, raising fears of communal tension as the situation slipped further out of control.

Police action sparks further tension:

Tensions escalated after police reportedly obstructed the overnight hunger strike site and picked up several protesters. The detention of protesters from Felangpi led to a highly charged atmosphere, with allegations that police acted as if dealing with militants rather than civilians.

In response, road blockades were imposed in Kheroni on Wednesday morning, with protesters demanding the immediate release of those detained.

Growing anger over political silence:

The protesters have openly questioned the silence of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) members, local MLAs, the Member of Parliament, and state-level leaders. They maintain that protecting tribal land is not a favour but a constitutional obligation under the Sixth Schedule.

According to the agitators, the issue has now grown beyond PGR/VGR encroachment to include loss of trust in institutions, rising insecurity, and fears that Karbis are becoming a minority in their own homeland.

Why the protests began:

The ongoing agitation in West Karbi Anglong began with a clear demand: eviction of alleged illegal settlers from Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) and Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) lands. Protesters argue that these lands are constitutionally protected under the Sixth Schedule and meant exclusively for indigenous tribal communities.

What started as a focused land-rights protest has now evolved into a broader movement questioning governance, accountability, and the failure of institutions in a Sixth Schedule district.

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