Clash over eviction issue ( eviction ) 

Karbi Anglong: Tensions have flared up again in the hill districts of Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong in Assam over the issue of evictions. Violence erupted in the restive Karbi Anglong district after clashes between two groups of protesters, resulting in the death of at least two people and injuries to 45 others, including 38 police personnel. Following the violent clashes, the Assam government has temporarily suspended internet services in both districts as a security measure. Officials said the government took this step in view of the renewed violence in the two districts over the eviction   ( eviction )    issue.

Assam CM closely monitoring the situation
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said he is closely monitoring the ongoing violence in West Karbi Anglong district. He said, “I am closely monitoring the situation in West Karbi Anglong. It is extremely unfortunate that two lives have been lost in today’s unrest. Additional security forces will be deployed in Kherani tomorrow to maintain peace. We are in constant touch with all concerned parties to normalize the situation and resolve the issues through dialogue. My deepest condolences are with the bereaved families. The government will stand by all the affected families and provide them with all possible assistance.”

Police resort to lathi-charge and tear gas
The incident began when two groups, one protesting against and the other supporting the evictions, confronted each other. The dispute escalated quickly, leading to stone-pelting and clashes between the two sides. Police had to use force to control the situation. They resorted to lathi-charge and fired tear gas shells to disperse the unruly crowd. Government Imposes Internet Ban
Following the violence, the state’s Home and Political Department has issued an order to suspend internet services with immediate effect to prevent the spread of rumors and maintain law and order. The official order states that there is a possibility of anti-social elements further aggravating the situation through social media, and therefore, this step has been taken to maintain public peace. This internet suspension order will remain in effect until further notice.

Why the controversy?
The main reason for the dispute is the resentment over illegal encroachments and eviction drives in Karbi Anglong. There has been a long-standing conflict between local organizations and outside groups over this issue, which turned violent on Tuesday.