Assam: Digboi tense after murder sparks highway protest, autorickshaw set ablaze by mob

- Apr 21, 2026,
- Updated Apr 21, 2026, 5:26 PM IST
Tension prevailed in Assam's Digboi on Tuesday, April 21 after a violent protest broke out in Powai area, where local residents set a an autorickshaw on fire along National Highway 38 following a murder incident.
According to preliminary information, the unrest was triggered by the alleged murder of a man identified as Akash Tiwari. Police sources said that another individual, Akash Singh, has been accused of committing the murder late on the previous night.
The situation escalated amid suspicions among local residents that the victim was deliberately run over using a truck. The allegation led to widespread anger in the area, prompting a large number of people to gather on the highway and stage a protest. Demonstrators demanded strict action against the accused and blocked vehicular movement.
As the protest intensified, some individuals set a vehicle ablaze, further aggravating the situation and disrupting traffic on the highway. The incident led to a volatile law and order scenario in the region.
Personnel from Digboi Police were deployed to the site and have been making continuous efforts to disperse the crowd and restore normalcy. However, officials indicated that the situation remained tense at the time of reporting.
There were also reports of minor scuffles between police personnel and protesters during attempts to control the gathering. Authorities are closely monitoring the developments, and additional security measures may be implemented if required.
Further details are awaited as the investigation into the incident continues.
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