15 arrested after arson, attack at Runikhata Forest Office; internet suspended in Chirang, Kokrajhar

At least 15 people have been arrested in connection with Friday’s violent attack on the Runikhata Forest Range Office in Assam’s Chirang district, where a mob allegedly vandalised the premises, looted arms, and set government vehicles on fire, police said on April 18.

Security has been intensified across the district following the violence near the India–Bhutan border. Chirang Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mohanlal Mena said strict action is being taken against those involved. “Stern action is being carried out against those who burned down the forest office,” he said.

According to officials, tensions began on April 16 after forest teams detained several locals for alleged encroachment and illegal clearing of land inside the Ripu–Chirang Reserve Forest, part of Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park. A crowd gathered at the Runikhata office that night demanding their release but dispersed without violence.

However, the situation escalated on Friday morning when a larger mob, armed with sticks, returned and attacked the premises. The mob ransacked the office and residential quarters, torched seven to eight vehicles, including government jeeps, and allegedly attempted to snatch weapons from forest guards. Several forest personnel were injured in the violence.

Police and forest staff resorted to a lathi charge and used tear gas to disperse the crowd, later firing blank shots in the air as tensions intensified.

Protesters alleged that forest personnel had assaulted them a day earlier and that two women were injured. The mob reportedly comprised members of the Santali community protesting the detention of alleged encroachers.

To prevent further escalation, the Assam government has suspended mobile internet services in Chirang and Kokrajhar districts since Friday evening. Prohibitory orders under Section 163 have also been imposed, banning the assembly of five or more people.

Additional security forces have been deployed, and officials said the situation remains tense but under control.

Police have urged residents to maintain calm and submit grievances through proper channels, stating that violence and damage to public property would not resolve the issue.