Violence-Hit Karbi Anglong Limping Back To Normal
Guwahati language : Amid calls for a low-key celebration of Christmas, violence-plagued Karbi Anglong is limping back to normal with the state government holding tripartite talks on Friday to resolve the conflict and defuse rising tensions.
Hundreds of displaced tribal residents, mostly Hindi-speaking villagers, arrived at Kheroni in Karbi Anglong in central Assam on Thursday to find their homes set on fire during mob violence on Wednesday. Kheroni district, the worst affected in the region, has people from Bihari, Bengali and Nepali communities, apart from Karbis.
Karbi and Bihari communities in West Karbi Anglong district are at loggerheads over alleged encroachment by Hindi-speaking people on Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) and Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) lands in tribal belts.
Security sources who follow the situation closely said that the situation is improving rapidly, but prohibitive regulations and the suspension of mobile internet services will continue.
Security sources pointed out that the state administration frequently examines the field situation and said that people displaced due to violence have started to return to their homes.
Considering the current situation, the Karbi Anglong United Christian Forum has advised churches to keep celebrations low-key and avoid activities after dark. As prohibitory orders on public gatherings remain in effect, churches have been requested not to hold nightly carol programs or hold celebrations outside church buildings.
The unrest broke out on Tuesday after a protest by Karbi tribal groups demanding eviction of non-tribals from village grazing reserves (VGR) and professional grazing reserves (PGR) turned violent, resulting in two deaths. The incident cast a shadow over the festive season in the district, where Christians make up a significant portion.
UCF Assam spokesperson Allen Brooks said the situation affected the overall festive atmosphere. He noted that concerns and concerns remain high, prompting the Christian community to prioritize safety over major celebrations this Christmas.
In an appeal issued by UCF Karbi Anglong, churches have been asked to strictly comply with the prohibitory order imposed under Article 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita in the wake of the violence. The organization, which has more than 300 churches across the region, urged congregations to hold programs during daylight hours and avoid home visits or travel at night.
The statement also urged people to refrain from making provocative statements and focus on praying for peace and harmony. Highlighting the spiritual essence of the festival, UCF said Christmas is about reflection, reconciliation and rebuilding relationships, rather than large gatherings or festivities.
In a separate public message, UCF appealed to West Karbi Anglong and Karbi Anglong residents to avoid further violence and escalation. He called for any protests to remain peaceful and democratic, keeping public safety and social harmony in mind.
