Angry mob torch school building in Assam's Paikan amid escalating tensions over eviction drive

Unrest continues to escalate in the Betbari Bidyapara region under Assam's Paikan Reserve Forest in Goalpara district, days after a state-initiated eviction drive was carried out on July 12. 

Tensions remain high as a section of evicted residents have defied state orders and refused to vacate the area, intensifying the already volatile situation.

The conflict reached a boiling point early Thursday (July 17) morning when protestors obstructed key roads with excavators (JCBs), triggering a standoff with police personnel deployed at the site. 

Eyewitnesses reported that a group of protestors armed with sticks, rods, and other sharp objects launched a violent attack by pelting stones and physically assaulting the security forces.

In response to the deteriorating law and order situation, police were compelled to resort to firing to disperse the mob. 

According to preliminary reports, the confrontation resulted in the deaths of three civilians and injuries to at least two others. 

Several police personnel also sustained injuries in the incident, while a journalist on site was reportedly hurt after being struck by a stone.

Reacting strongly to the situation, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, speaking to the media, stated, “Not a single individual involved in attacking our police force will be spared. Law will take its due course.”

In a separate but related incident, an alleged attempt was made by locals to set fire to a shut-down government school, Bidyapara M.E. School, located within the eviction zone. 

The fire was brought under control swiftly, following the timely intervention of the fire brigade. Following the incident, police have detained four individuals suspected of being involved in the arson attempt.

The administration has intensified surveillance and security measures in the area to prevent further escalation.