Assam in flames! Shocking Karbi Anglong violence leaves 2 dead — here’s what really happened

The administration said internet services were snapped as a precautionary measure to maintain peace and prevent the situation from deteriorating further in the affected districts.

The unrest broke out amid protests demanding the eviction of alleged “illegal settlers” from protected tribal belts.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said he was closely monitoring the situation and announced additional security deployment in violence-hit areas.

“I am closely monitoring the situation in West Karbi Anglong. It is deeply painful that two persons lost their lives during today’s unrest. Additional security forces will be deployed in Kherani tomorrow to maintain peace,” Sarma posted on X.

“We are in constant touch with all concerned to restore normalcy and resolve issues through dialogue. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The government will stand with all affected families and provide all necessary support,” he added.

What's the whole issue?

Indigenous tribal groups, primarily from the Karbi community, have been demanding the eviction of people they describe as illegal non-tribal encroachers from protected tribal lands in the region.

The focus of the protests is on Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) and Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) lands, which are safeguarded under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution for the use and protection of indigenous communities.

Protesters allege that non-tribals—many of whom they claim have migrated from outside the region, including Bihar—have unlawfully occupied these grazing reserves, violating constitutional provisions meant to protect tribal land rights.

The agitation intensified following a prolonged hunger strike by tribal activists pressing for strict enforcement of land protections and the removal of encroachers.

Demonstrators have also sought direct dialogue with the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) and the state government, citing delays and legal hurdles in implementing eviction notices and safeguarding tribal lands.

The protesters are demanding stronger safeguards and decisive administrative action to protect tribal areas and uphold constitutional provisions governing autonomous regions.

The violence started as a tribal protest over land rights but escalated due to clashes between communities, police intervention, and rising tensions over enforcement of constitutional protections.