Peace meeting held in Assam’s Kokrajhar to review recent clash

A peace meeting was held on January 21 at the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) Assembly Auditorium in Kokrajhar to review the recent violence in the district and assess the prevailing law and order situation.

The meeting was led by Assam Cabinet Minister Jayanta Malla Barua and attended by Cabinet Minister Charan Boro, BTC Chief Executive Member Hagrama Mohilary, local MLA Lawrence Islary, and representatives of various student bodies and social organisations.

During the meeting, leaders appealed to the public to maintain peace and harmony and urged all sections to refrain from actions that could escalate tensions. They stressed the need for unity and cooperation to restore normalcy in the district.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Jayanta Malla Barua said the situation in Kokrajhar was currently under control. “Due to some misunderstanding, an unfortunate situation erupted. The Chief Minister is closely monitoring all developments,” he said. He added that he would visit the families of those who lost their lives in the incident. “All necessary security arrangements have been strengthened across the district to maintain law and order,” Barua said.

Authorities have urged citizens to remain calm and cooperate with the administration.
According to officials, the unrest began on January 19 following a violent clash between two groups, which led to the death of a youth and triggered protests in parts of the district.

Meanwhile, the deceased youths have been identified as Sunil Murmu and Sikhna Jwhwlao Bismit. Police said Sunil Murmu was among the protesters who sustained injuries during the ensuing protest that broke out following the death of Sikhna Jwhwlao Bismit, who was killed during the initial clash.

Tensions escalated further as protests turned violent, leading to arson, road blockades, and clashes with security personnel. Police resorted to baton charges and tear gas to disperse the crowd, during which several people, including police personnel, were injured.